Stone Nimba Figure, 16th Century CE - 20th Century CE
stone
8
DA.403 (LSO)
Further images
This unusual piece is a stone rendering of the Baga tribe's most famous mask: the Nimba. These imposing masks are up to three or four feet high, and are worn...
This unusual piece is a stone rendering of the Baga tribe's most famous mask: the Nimba. These imposing masks are up to three or four feet high, and are worn over the dancer's features - resting on his shoulders - with a raffia fringe that conceals him down to chest height.
Despite the weight, he will then carry out an energetic dance that is designed to honour female ancestors and usher in fertility, both figuratively and for increased rice crop yields.
This is an interesting piece of Africana.
Despite the weight, he will then carry out an energetic dance that is designed to honour female ancestors and usher in fertility, both figuratively and for increased rice crop yields.
This is an interesting piece of Africana.