Kondé mask — Malinké, Mali — African tribal art — Ref. 309

Description

This Kondé mask, attributed to the Malinké of Mali, is used in the rituals of the Kondé secret society, associated with initiation ceremonies and the passage into adulthood. This type of mask is worn during ceremonial dances intended to embody protective spirits and ensure social cohesion within the community.
Kondé masks are considered mystical entities that communicate with the ancestors and invisible forces. They play a key role in initiation rituals and symbolise authority, protection and spiritual power.
This carved wooden mask has a long, angular face, a rounded forehead and an expressively open mouth, sometimes fitted with bone or metal teeth. The protruding nose and hollowed circular eyes accentuate its mystical appearance. The whole is surmounted by an imposing coiffure, often decorated with geometric motifs, brass nails, plant fibres and sometimes mirrors, as in certain masks linked to initiatory brotherhoods.
Dense wood with patina of use, natural fibres fixed around the edge, presence of metal elements and decorations. A few visible cracks testify to its age and ritual use.

Technical details

Type of piece

Masque

Category

Masks

Ethnic group

Malinké

Country

Mali

Materials

iron, wood, miroir, fibre végétale

Dimensions

H 70 × W 10 × D 20 cm

Weight

1,7 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

309