Unidentified

Kòmò Association Helmet Crest Mask (warakun or kòmòkun)

n.d.

Category
Culture
Bamana
Place Made
Mali: Koulikoro Region
Materials
Wood; animal fur; porcupine quills; duiker, oribi, and roan antelope horns; feathers; mirror; sacrificial patina
Measurements
17 1/2 x 30 x 10 in (44.45 x 76.2 x 25.4 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of Kent and Charles Davis
Accession #
92.804
Description

Multiple bundles of quills, feathers, and pig hairs are bound to the structure, projecting vertically. Pairs of roan antelope and bushbuck horns project aggressively from the rear of the mask. The entire surface of the wood sculpture is covered with earth mixed with crushed leaves and other substances. The encrusted patina has been developed from numerous sacrificial offerings.