The imagery found in masks of the Bobo, Bwa and others living in the Burkina Faso commonly combine the stylized features of humans, animals and even insects. Bold geometric shapes repeated in brightly painted designs enliven the surfaces of these relatively abstract designs.
When used in performances the masks embody nature or ancestor spirits that interact with human beings and influence their lives. They appear at important funerals to honour the dead and escort the deceased’s soul to the world beyond.
They are also used in dance at agricultural festivities to ensure the proper progression of the seasons and at initiation rituals to help young men and women understand the secrets and responsibilities of adulthood.
Note: This item is entirely hand crafted and purchased items may vary slightly to the image.