BAGA, BURKINA FASO
WOOD AND PIGMENTS, HEIGHT 200CM

These masks were held on the shoulders of the dancers. They are representing a spirit called A-MANTSHO-NGA-TSHOL, mostly displayed as a snake, which is the patron of the To-lom society, the society which is responsible for initiation ceremonies. A very colourful mask even though the colours have faded over time. In good condition except for one area which has deteriorated and a patch of wood has gone soft because of contact with moisture.