Mossi Mask

Provenance:
– Private collection, UK (details will be given to the buyer)

This item is sold with a Certificate of Authenticity

Masks of this type are associated with the antelope, one of several animals featured in regional myths. In the northern Mossi region, masks are used in burials, memorial celebrations and protective ceremonies and may perform for entertainment. The deceptively simple yet dramatic form of the mask contrasts with the complex history of migration, conquest and assimilation of its owners–individual Nyonyosé lineage groups. They are descendents of three blended groups: the original Dogon peoples, displaced by the westward-moving Kurumba peoples, and the Dagomba horsemen, a new ruling elite from the south that entered around 1500. The groups intermarried and integrated into the peoples now called Mossi.

The available literature is unclear as to the type of mask shown here (A. Schweeger-Hefel, “Masken und Mythen” 1980 and C. Roy, “Art of the Upper Volta Rivers” 1987). Without ever having presented any field photos, both authors refer to a Mossi/Kouroumba type “Karanga” mask and this assertion has been widely adopted by the antiquarian community. Fortunately, in 1975 David Attenborough has filmed a series of documentaries on traditional art in Africa (The Tribal Eye). During the course of his account, one can see Dogon dancers who walk in single file. Among them, a masked “Wirigo” dancer makes a brief appearance. The use of this particular mask seems to be limited to the village of Dogo. It is located at the foot of the cliff at a short distance to the south of Kani Kombole (Huib Blom, 2020).