Bobo Sun Mask

Bobo (Bwa)

Burkina Faso

This Bwa mask, which is a relatively recent design, represents the sun, necessary with rain and the earth for growth. Red, white and black are the only colors allowed to adorn these masks. The strongly abstracted patterning shows the influence of Islamic teaching over the centuries; it refers symbolically to knowledge and ignorance.

This mask is worn in front of the dancers face and held in place with a thick rope by the wearer's teeth. It is used to celebrate the farming season and on market day dances. On market days, performances are organized to entertain the villagers and traveling merchants, and to permit young men to meet young women they might marry.

Wood

Height : 18.5″ (47cm)