Nwantantay (Plank Mask) with Owl Face

Date

20th century

Creator

Plank masks of this type were made by the Bwa peoples living in Burkina Faso. They were used in performances to embody nature or the spirits of ancestors. These masks were frequently used at important rites of passage, such as initiation rituals or at burials of important individuals. Masks of this sort often combine stylized features of humans and animals, as well as bold geometric patterns. Performers would see out the mouth of the mask. Above, there is a depiction of what might be a lizard or turtle. On the back of the mask is a bold checkerboard pattern.