Human Antelope Mask

Human Antelope Mask

Malinke Culture

Explicit combinations of a human face with antelope horns, as seen in this Malinke mask, are uncommon in Africa, but the theme of the human-antelope is not. Such antelope symbolism can be found in many African cultures, and it is usually associated with agriculture. Among the Bamana, for example, a mythical half-antelope, half-human creature called a Chi Wara taught humans how to farm, and the Bamana make headdresses portraying these creatures for agricultural masquerades ceremonies.

Research by Melissa Correnti, 2005, Missouri State University Student. Mentor: Dr. Billie Follensbee

20th

76 cm h. x 20.5 cm w. x 16 cm d.

Sculpture

Wood

Carving

Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harold Stoneman

1985.4

1985

20150042