Mask of the Koré

This is both a face mask and a helmet mask, since it covers the head. The masks of “Koré” and “N’Tomo” depict human faces, but may also take animal form, representing mythical and symbolic animals. The Bambara call the mask “Boli”, a general concept which, for members of these two secret societies, encompasses all masks inhabited by spirits of the earth. The masks are generally kept in the fields to ward off evil spirits.

Human-faced masks represent “Faro”, creator and guide of the universe. The Bambara believe Faro gives people a conscience, a sense of order and feelings of responsibility. Faro watches over all human work and justice.

The Bambara treat their masks as people. They present offerings to them and bury them ritually when their service is over.

This solid mask is topped with a kind of crest. A row of triangles runs across the forehead, alternating white with the mask’s dark grey, almost black, colour. Straight nose, protruding lips and ears projecting at the sides. Around the lower edge are holes for attaching the wearer’s costume. Patina from the passage of time.