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Open a larger version of the following image in a popup: Senufo Kponiugo Firespitter Helmet Mask, 20th Century CE
Open a larger version of the following image in a popup: Senufo Kponiugo Firespitter Helmet Mask, 20th Century CE
Open a larger version of the following image in a popup: Senufo Kponiugo Firespitter Helmet Mask, 20th Century CE
Open a larger version of the following image in a popup: Senufo Kponiugo Firespitter Helmet Mask, 20th Century CE

Senufo Kponiugo Firespitter Helmet Mask, 20th Century CE

Wood
31.8 x 78.7 cm
12 1/2 x 31 in
PF.1254
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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...
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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.
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London

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London, W1S 4JW

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