N'toma Mask

African Art Collection
DESCRIPTION: The rare androgynous mask is denoted by seven spikes and six eyes. The mask depicts a human face topped with side-to-side horns. This mask, used in male initiations represents a man in his uncircumcised, androgynous state. The mask is visually expressive with a high attention to detail. The metal decoration and three layers of eyes are both striking and impressive. The exquisite mask is in excellent condition.
GEOGRAPHY / CULTURE GROUP: Mali, Bambara (Bamana). The Bambara are a Mande ethnic group native to Mali, Guinea, and Senegal. There are also sizable concentrations of the Bambara tribal group in current day Ivory Coast, Burkina Faso and Niger. Islam is the most common religion among the Bambara. The Bambara are commonly viewed as the most dominant cultural community in West Africa. The people are known for their agriculture, carving, music, and leather work. The culture is recognized for its strong secret societies that once imposed social controls among its ancient communities.
The Bambara (Bamana) Mali Read Biography
No
Bambara (bamana)
Mali
Stained Wood, tacks, white metal (mixture of brass, zinc, tin, silver, and
Mask
2022.01.055
May 2022
Reginald and Celeste Hodges
May 2022