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The masks below are SOLD. They are left here for reference and education purposes.
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Photographs © Tim Hamill
SENUFO, FIRESPITTER MASKS, Ivory Coast
These large horizontal masks, composites of several animals, were called Kponungo, or "funeral head masks". The term "Firespitter" is used by outsiders. Used by both Poro and non-Poro male societies, these helmet masks embodied an aggressive supernatural power to combat any forces that might disrupt the well-being of the community. The powerful features of antelopes, buffaloes, crocodiles, warthogs, hornbills, chameleons and humans combined to symbolize power and to recall important myths. They were used in anti-witchcraft ceremonies.
Numbers 7, 12 and 13 are Gbon Masks, simpler and danced at funerals to control and guide the soul of the deceased.
GO TO SENUFO FIRESPITTER MASK PAGE
GO TO SENUFO BIRDS 1 PAGE (1-15)
GO TO SENUFO BIRDS 2 PAGE (16-28)
GO TO SENUFO MATERNITY FIGURES PAGE
RETURN TO MASKS
AND HEADS PAGE
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