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Large Abstract Polychrome Nafana "Bedu" Mask, Burkina Faso, Africa Wood Pigments
About the Item
Nafana "Bedu" mask, from Southern Burkina Faso/Ivory Coast. Wood with natural earth pigments. Note the double faces, one with tubular eyes and mouth for the dancer and the larger abstract one for the audience.
This mask played a central role in various rituals, ceremonies, and social events within Nafana communities. "Bedu" meaning "moon" in Nafana language, the mask represented a buffalo-like spirit animal. Male-female pairs of Bedu masks were danced during harvest festivals and at funerals to purify villages, protect the inhabitants from sickness and danger, and to promote the fertility of women and crops. One of the most distinctive features of this Bedu mask is its elegantly disposed horns. These horns, crafted from the same wood as the mask itself, extend upwards from the top of the mask, adding height and grandeur to its overall appearance. The three raised circles near center are the eyes and mouth, with two black circles below, all of these convey a sense of mystery and the neutrality of nature.
Heavy wear and erosion to back of the mask from age.
Provenance: Ann & Norman Roulet, Cleveland, OH; ex SW USA collection
- Dimensions:Height: 58.5 in (148.59 cm)Width: 26 in (66.04 cm)Depth: 3 in (7.62 cm)
- Style:Tribal (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Early-Mid-20th century
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages. Minor fading. Heavy wear and erosion to back of the mask from age.
- Seller Location:Point Richmond, CA
- Reference Number:
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Orinda, CA
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