Among the Mossi there are several mask styles, with this one being in the Ougadougou style, which is characterized by its small, compact helmet form.
The sagittal hairstyle, (Gyonfo), identifies this character as a woman from the neighboring Fulani herding group.
In performance these masks are worn on the top of the head and do not cover the dancer’s face. A thick costume of blackened hemp fibers attached to the bottom of the mask completely hides the performer from view.
The Fulani women played an important
role in the myth of a particular Mossi clan’s founding.
The mask served as a physical embodiment
of the collective spirits and clan’s ancestors.
Height: 11" x Width: 7" x Depth: 10 1/2"
