Bamana Ntomo mask
€640.00
African Ntomo masks are worn by the Bamana (or Bambara), an ethnic group in Mali. They are used as part of the Ntomo initiation society.
This constitutes the first step in the initiatory journey of young boys before their circumcision, preparing them for their role as adults within the community.
Aesthetically, traditional Ntomo masks are characterized by a stylized human face, sometimes covered with cowries, seeds or brass, and topped with vertical projections similar to horns, sometimes straight, sometimes curved.
The number of these projections, generally between four and ten, symbolizes profound concepts related to masculinity, femininity and androgyny, while serving as educational tools within the initiatory society.
Shipping fees
02562
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 48 cm (66 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection France
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
African Ntomo masks are worn by the Bamana (or Bambara), an ethnic group in Mali. They are used as part of the Ntomo initiation society.
This constitutes the first step in the initiatory journey of young boys before their circumcision, preparing them for their role as adults within the community.
Aesthetically, traditional Ntomo masks are characterized by a stylized human face, sometimes covered with cowries, seeds or brass, and topped with vertical projections similar to horns, sometimes straight, sometimes curved.
The number of these projections, generally between four and ten, symbolizes profound concepts related to masculinity, femininity and androgyny, while serving as educational tools within the initiatory society.