This type of Senufo mask, called ‘Waniugo’, consists of a two-headed hybrid creature with two open crocodile mouths and, on the side, the protruding tusks of a wart hog. Two chameleons sit above, their heads point towards a vessel carved out from the same piece on the crown of the mask. This vessel is the most important part of the ‘Waniugo mask’, as within it – according to the beliefs of the Senufo people – lies the ‘magical substance’ that lends the mask its power.
‘Waniugo masks’ are worn most often at night as part of funeral ceremonies. They dispel evil spirits, however the Senufo believe the masks themselves are dangerous as they are supposed to be able to cause thunder and lightening. During the night-time performances a glowing piece of coal used to be placed into one of the mouths of the crocodile. As a result, the masked dancers sprayed an impressive shower of glowing sparks into the dark night. For this reason, these ‘Waniugo masks’ are also known as ‘fire spitter masks’.
The present ‘Waniugo mask’ is an old, stylistically perfect example of this type of mask: it is carved from hard wood and dyed black, with white accents on the eyes and in the chip-carving on both chameleons. A part of the lower jaw and two teeth in one of the two crocodile mouths have broken off as as a result of usage. There is also a minor crack to the side. Otherwise no damage. It has an excellent, in places shiny patina (also on the inside of the ‘helmet’). Height: c. 35 cm; length: 70 cm. First half of the 20th century. (ME)

Provenance:
Austrian private collection.

Lit.:
'Die Kunst der Senufo' by H.-J. Koloß & Till Förster, catalogue of the Museum für Völkerkunde, Berlin, ill. 24.