Mask Kaissi
Bidjogo · Guinea-Bissau
Reference: MFR-2
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- Height
- 55 cm
- Material
- Wood and pigments
It is a front mask that is worn during ceremonies, organized by Kabaro society, passing between two classes of age. The sea exerts a great influence…
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Full original description
It is a front mask that is worn during ceremonies, organized by Kabaro society, passing between two classes of age. The sea exerts a great influence on this ethnic group as indicated by its masks of sawfish and shark. They participate in the initiation ceremonies of the different age classes. They usually represent the most feared marine animals, among them the shark that is quite aggressive in the waters of the archpelago. They have masks that are worn over their heads, like those that represent cows or bulls. The movements of the dancer reproduce those of the animal embodied by the mask.
This mask combines elements of the sawfish, the ray and the shark. It is usually called a sawfish mask. The sawfish is depicted on top of the mask as a scimer. It is carried by men of mature age. White, brown and red polychrome.
Further technical information
- Width
- 28 cm
- Attributed period
- First third of the century XX
Details transcribed from the original catalogue; they are not a recent physical inspection.
Country on the map
Guinea-Bissau. 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.
