Senufo
Face Mask (Kpeliye'e)
May one see it?
Not receiving at present
Art Institute of Chicago
Chicago, United States
It belongs to the collection, but is not on display at present.
- Checked
- In this state since
- Source
- The museum
About the sculpture
This face mask was made by a specialized carver for the powerful all-male Poro association, which governs life and death in Senufo communities. Danced at initiations and funerals, it represents ideal womanhood even though only a man can wear it. The mask’s glossy, black surface mimics the oiled, smooth, firm skin that is the hallmark of a pica, a beautiful young woman who is ready for marriage. Its femininity also emerges in the choreography, which includes exaggerated hip movements.
Art Institute of ChicagoCC BY 4.0
Particulars
- Accession number
- 2018.548
What it shows
In the catalog
Sources
- Art Institute of Chicago
- Image: Art Institute of Chicago — © the artist or rights holder
