A metal mask made of yellow cast-alloy (brass), executed with ‘waste mould’ casting. Among the Senufo people this mask type is known as ‘kpelie’ and is usually carved in wood rather than cast in metal. The Dioula, neighbours of the Senufo people, adopted the basic form of the ‘kpelie mask’ and frequently made their own cast brass variations. The Dioula tribe refers to this mask type as ‘do’. Although the present, old mask displays scarification marks of the Senufo people, three outward lines departing from both mouth corners, it lacks the typical projections on both cheeks, which are characteristic of the ‘kpelie’ masks of the Senufo. In addition, this metal mask shows a prominent semicircular, jagged crest running vertically from the top of the head across the forehead to the root of the nose. The upper edge of the mask is surmounted by one small figure on the left and one on the right, whilst two pointed ‘ears’ depart from a diagonal line over the eyes. For this reason, the present item is more likely to belong to the Dioula than the Senufo. Overall a very interesting piece, with good, old usage patina (especially inside on the back!). No damage. First half of the 20th century or earlier; H: 28 cm. (ME)

Provenance: Austrian private collection.

Lit.: ‘Die Kunst der Senufo’ by H.-J. Koloß, ill. 48; ‘Encyclopedia of African Art and Culture’ by K.-F. Schädler, ill. p. 183; ‘Erde und Erz’ by K.-Schädler, ill. 145, 149.