Mask

Mask from the Kpelle people of Guinea-Bissau, in which “[...] human and animal features are combined: the large hemispherical forehead rises above an enormous nose, or bird's beak, connected to the prominent brow ridges. Round eyes encircled with copper [...], cheeks with subtly defined cheekbones. The lower part of the face (or muzzle?), with its movable jaw, emerges from a voluminous mass of long monkey hair. [...]. The contrast between the black fur and the deep, lustrous red surface of the sculpture creates a striking visual effect.” (quoted from E. Bassani [ed.], Arte dell'Africa Nera, Florence–Milan, Skira, 2000). The work is part of the Bassani Collection (inv. AFR 00034 2513A).

Photo: Paolo Vandrasch, Milano; Giuliano Spagnul, Milano; Vivi Papi, Varese.

Courtesy MUDEC.