[Untitled]
Item
Accession Number
2024.6.
Subject
Mask|Ceremonial|West Africa
Country
Mali
Date
Early 20th Century
Medium
Patinated wood, beads, cowrie shells
Format
H x W x D: 21 1/2 in x 5 1/2 in x 6 3/4 in (54.61 cm x 13.97 cm x 17.145 cm)
Description
The N'tomo mask pictures a young man with an elongated face and an antelope stemming from the forehead. Young men danced with the N'tomo mask during one of their initiation ceremonies, as a part of their transition into adulthood. The image of the antelope is mean to encourage skill in farming. Some other N'tomo masks depict female figures alongside the antelope to encourage a young man's success in courting as well. The mask is decorated with thinly incised lines signifying scarification patterns. The eyes of the antelope and other elements of the mask are enhanced by red beads. Cowrie shells line the prong-like shape behind the antelope.
Type
Face Mask
Conforms To
Bamana