Helmet Mask ‘Korobla’

Senufo, Boundiali, Côte d’Ivoire

Early 20th century

Wood, Metal, Ritual Patina

42cm Long

Provenance:

Private French Collection, Andelys

Senufo helmet masks can take many forms, but most typically are animal masks such as the present example. This mask represents a hyena, but others can take the form of horned or janus-faced amalgamations of various bush animals. All of these are different manifestations of powerful forest spirits associated with male initiatory cults.