Rams Head Antiques

Description

This is a good Bamana mask from Mali in Africa in excellent condition dating from the late 19th century. The mask has a typical striking design with fork headress and brass Strapwork detailing throughout. The mask has its original small cowrie shell earrings and fabric tuft and tasselled detail. This is a really decorative example and has a bespoke iron stand fitted for optimum display.

The mask measures 55 cms high 20 cms wide by 13 cms deep. On the stand this is 59 cms in height overall.
The Bamana are a large and powerful ethnic group in Mali, West Africa. Both Islamic and traditional religious views are entwined in Bamana culture. The political structure is patrilineal, meaning positions are inherited and handed down through the male side of the family. Political leaders also control the group’s religious arrangement. Adulthood is earned through the process of six major initiation societies, collectively called the jow, which are used as both a religious and educational system. Bamana males go through all six of the societies in order to be able to marry and start their role in adulthood, while Bamana females go through just one initiation society. Each of these different societies within the Bamana culture has its own unique masks.

The ntomo society is a five year period for uncircumcised boys, and the first society of the six they go through to become recognized as men. Boys are taught to accept discipline and endure hardship quietly, which includes ritual flagellation sessions in complete silence. This experience is reflected in the ntomo society’s masks, which have small shut mouths or no mouth at all. Mask dancers also carry whips with them, which relates to ritual flagellation. Silence is also taught as the lesson of keeping secrets. They even have a well-known song throughout the Bamana culture


UK insured delivery is £15