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African & Tribal Art :
African Masks : African Art / Bidjogo Wooden Dugn'be Helmet Mask of a Bull
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African Art / Bidjogo Wooden Dugn'be Helmet Mask of a Bull - PF.4333
Origin: Coast of Guinea-Bissau
Circa: 19
th
Century AD
to 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
14" (35.6cm) high
x 11" (27.9cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Wood and Mixed Media
Additional Information: SOLD
$9,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
Through participation in ceremonies and rituals, the African artist becomes familiar with numerous secrets. He is responsible for communicating through raw material a multitude of feelings and emotions; and in the case of masks, presenting an image that has both real and supernatural qualities.
The success of the sculptor in depicting the strength of an animal is evident in this powerful Dugn'be, or bull mask. Used in initiation ceremonies, the heaviest masks are worn by boys before they've reached the age of puberty. Usually the masks are of animals such as the hippopotamus, shark, or wild oxen, often carved in a very realistic manner. In this dramatic example, the eyes are made from green glass, the horns are genuine, and tassels of grass fibers hanging from the sides give an impression of hair. During the ritual, dancers imitate the dangerous beasts depicted on their masks, representing a wild and untamed spirit. It has been noted that after such ceremonies there is tremendous sobriety among the adults - no doubt sharing with all parents everywhere the pain and joy of watching their child pass from innocence to the glorious possibilities of adulthood.
- (PF.4333)
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