BOBO STYLE CHAMELEONS, Burkina Faso

Photographs © Hamill Gallery

BOBO ( or BWA or NUNA ) STYLE Chameleon Masks

The chameleon is abundantly represented in the art of Burkina Faso peoples (Bwa, Bobo, Lobi and Nuna). It is considered one of the original primordial creatures created by God. Chameleons are considered magical and powerful because of their ability to change color when aroused or frightened. Its deliberate manner of walking also makes it an animal to fear.

Despite their appearance and patina, these wonderful masks show no evidence of age or use and were probably made to be sold.

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