Senufo Kponiugo Firespitter Helmet Mask, 20th Century CE
Wood
31.8 x 78.7 cm
12 1/2 x 31 in
12 1/2 x 31 in
PF.1254
                                    Further images
                                   Senufo masks called kponiugo or firespitters represent a mythical being who protects the community from sorcerers and soul stealers. He is depicted with the jaws of a hyena, the tusks...
                        
                    
                                                    Senufo masks called  kponiugo  or firespitters represent a mythical being who protects the community from sorcerers and soul stealers.  He is depicted with the jaws of a hyena, the tusks of a wart hog, the horns of an antelope, and the ears of a gazelle.  Appropriately the mask is intended to recall the chaos before the world was set in order.  Between the horns are a hornbill and snake, two of the primordial animals.  These masks appear in groups after dark and seem to spit fire, for tinder is held in a cleft stick in front of the mouth, causing sparks to spew forth from the mask.
                    
                    
                 
                                         
                                         
                                         
                                         
                                         
                                         
                                        