Bufalo Tsenya mask
Bamun · Cameroon
Reference: MFZ-21
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- Height
- 51 cm
- Material
- Wood, brass and pigments.
Red wood mask covered with brass plates called tsenya or tsepfeliExaggerated teeth show the aggressiveness of the animal. The horned horn is represented by the small…
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Full original description
Red wood mask covered with brass plates called tsenya or tsepfeliExaggerated teeth show the aggressiveness of the animal. The horned horn is represented by the small but aggressive jungle buffalo. These masks are always related to agrarian rites and hunting, but they also participate in funeral rites and those dedicated to the fertility of women. He also participates in the dance of Ngou. The buffalo is an animal that represents strength and power so it is the symbol of the FonIt belongs to the secret society. mepfeliwho plays an important role in the initiation ceremonies of young neophytes and who is responsible for driving the evil spirits away from the village.
Further technical information
- Attributed period
- Mid-century XX or earlier.
- Recorded weight
- 2 g
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.
