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Sunufu Kpelie Mask

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Collection: African Art Collection
Description: DESCRIPTION: The mask is made from a single piece of wood and appears to have some age on it. It was likely created around 1940. The local term “Kpelie” used to identify this type of mask translates to “Beautiful Lady”. The well carved mask has a bird at the top, appendages on each side of the face, detailed facial features detailed, exaggerated teeth, and scarification on the forehead. The carving is in good condition except for a broken appendage that extends from the left side of the chin..
General Note: GEOGRAPHY / CULTURE GROUP: Ivory Coast, Senufu. The Senufu are made up of several subgroups who migrated to Ivory Coast from ancient Mali in the 15th century. They are the dominant culture in Ivory Coast. Senufu agriculture is common in the region. Crops include millet, rice, maize, and yams. The Senufu villages usually range in size from 50 to 2,000. Islam is the most common religion.
Artists/Makers: The Senufo The Senufo Peoples of the Ivory Coast NA Read Biography

The Senufo

GEOGRAPHY / CULTURE GROUP: Ivory Coast, Senufu. The Senufu are made up of several subgroups who migrated to Ivory Coast from ancient Mali in the 15th century. They are the dominant culture in Ivory Coast. Senufu agriculture is common in the region. Crops include millet, rice, maize and yams. The Senufu villages usually range in size from 50 to 2,000. Islam is the most common religion.
Student Work: No
Culture: Senufo
Geography: Ivory Coast
Medium: Stained Wood
Classification: Mask
Accession Number: 2022.01.058
Accession Date: May 2022
Donated By: Reginald and Celeste Hodges
Donation Date: May 2022