Firespitter Mask
Wood mask of fanged creature with two figures (female and ape). Female figure is removable (considered a separate piece).
Label reads "Firespitter mask. Senufo Tribe, Ivory Coast. Society mask. Fusion of Warthog, antelope,monkey, crocodile, woman."
- Object: Firespitter Mask
- Artist: -
- Circa: -
- Dimensions: 24.25"L x 14.5"H x 9"W
- Culture Area: Ivory Coast, Africa
- Cultural Group: Senufo
- Cultural Context: This mask may be a ceremonial mask worn at funerals. The name of this mask is derived from the work “kpoo” and “nyungo” which is translated as “head of the deceased one”. It is represented with a variety of animals such as: antelopes,monkeys, crocodiles, and women. This mask is an ideogram that symbolizes a mythical being that channels the spirit of the animals. From antelope and crocodile, they allude to strength and speed. From women, they symbolize fertility. The Kponyugo mask is also used for initiation festivities during times of maintaining social order within the community.
- Donor: Barbara & Hiro Narita
- Catalog #: 114.237