Bufalo Nyatti mask
Duala · Cameroon
Reference: MSOAL-7
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- Height
- 79 cm
- Material
- Wood and pigments.
The sculptors Duala showy elongated masks, representing a stylized and polychrome buffalo, called nyatti. The trapezoidal shape of the head contrasts with the circular shape of…
Enquire about this objectFull original description
The sculptors Duala showy elongated masks, representing a stylized and polychrome buffalo, called nyatti. The trapezoidal shape of the head contrasts with the circular shape of the horns. Polychromy is symmetrical. Ears, also polychromes, stand out on the sides. The tongue consists of a small sheet of iron. They are employed by members of male secret societies Ekalé.
Polychrome is the main characteristic of art Duala, as can be seen In the magnificent canoe bows they make. They also sculpt stools whose use is reserved for chiefs. These masks were used in the ceremonies of secret societies Ekongolo and Losango.
Further technical information
- Attributed period
- Mid-century XX
Details transcribed from the original catalogue; they are not a recent physical inspection.
Country on the map
Cameroon. The country associated with the catalog is shown, not the current location of the piece.
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Attributions, dates and accounts come from the preserved catalogue. They do not constitute certification of authenticity or provenance. An object’s presence on this website does not mean it is available for sale.
