Marka N'tomo Mask

embossed brass, fibers, hand-carved hollowed wood form and pierced around the rim for attachment, circa early 20th Century, new presentation base  

measures approximately with base: 16 7/8" H x 5 7/8" D x 6" W 

measures approximately without base: 13 3/4" H x 5 7/8" W 

The mask represents a human face combined with animal features with the horns of an antelope. The Bambara people consider the antelope as the ideal animal and the mythical being that taught men agriculture. Therefore, antelope horns are a common feature on their masks. Also, common in the masks, are the representation of dried red berries. In this mask, the berries are represented by the red fibers.

These types of masks are used for dance on different occasions, from rites of passage to agrarian ceremonies, invoking spirits to protect and grant bountiful agricultural harvests and successful hunting and fishing excursions.