3D AFRICAN MASKS

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ERC1155

Bamana (Bambara) Ntomo Masks are amongst the most interesting of the Bambara people. Ntomo is an association found in Bamana communities usually focused on learning about adult responsibilities. There are six male initiation societies that young males must go through before becoming a man. N'tomo Dyo is the first of these through which boys pass before their circumcision. The mask represents the legendary ancestor of the Bambara and it is a symbol of protection. The mask is made of wood and may be covered in shells, seeds or brass. The face may be more or less abstract, but is always topped by a row of vertical projections. The number of spikes indicates whether the mask is masculine, feminine or androgynous. Three, six or nine are male; four and eight are female; and two, five and seven are androgynous. The mask was also used at agricultural festivities and to prevent illness.