Mask of the Koré

It's a facial mask and a helmet at a time because it covers the head. The masks of “Koré” and “N’Tomo” represent human faces but can also be zoomorphs and represent mythical and symbolic animals in this case. The Bambara give the mask the name of “Boli”, which for the members of these two secret societies is a general concept that encompasses all masks inhabited by the spirits of the earth. Usually, masks are kept in the fields, to keep evil spirits away.

The masks with a human face represent “Faro”, creator and guide of the universe. The Bambara They think it is Faro who gives men the conscience, the sense of order and the feelings of responsibility. Lighthouse watches over all human work and justice

The Bambara treat their masks as if they were people. They present offerings to them and ritually bury them when they have finished their service.

This solid mask is topped with a kind of crest. The forehead is crossed by a row of triangles that alternate the white color with the dark grey, almost black, of the mask. Straight nose, protruding lips and protruding ears on the sides. In the lower perimeter of the mask stand out the holes intended to hold the clothing of its wearer. Time skate.