1997.24 Helmut mask (komo)

Despite the presence of a small elegant female figure, the sharp horns and tusks of antelopes and warthogs pointing in all directions, the prominent zigzag teeth, projecting glass eyes, and reflective mirrors, and the overall encrusted surface give this mask a menacing appearance. It originated among Senufo peoples living in close proximity to the Bamana, who use helmet masks with horrific animal imagery. 

Among the Bamana, encrusted masks with long, horizontal muzzles are worn by high-ranking members of the male-only Komo association that is traditionally responsible for maintaining social, spiritual, and economic harmony in Bamana communities. A society of blacksmiths, its high-ranking members practice divination and are empowered to function as judges. The wooden komo mask is covered with all manner of animal and vegetable materials that make it powerful.

Senufo's kponyungo helmet masks are owned by the most senior members of the male-only Poro society that functions as a system of government, education, and economic control. Like the Bamana's Komo, Poro has a spiritual function to serve as a medium for contact with the realm of deities and ancestors. Its associated helmet masks present a daggerlike image of concentrated aggression through animal imagery, including a long horizontal muzzle with bared teeth, antelope horns, warthog tusks, and fully realized chameleons and birds. The surface of kponyungo is painted rather than encrusted with sacrificial material. Instead of a human figure crowning the mask, there is a cup to hold potent magical ingredients.

This komo mask combines traits of both Senufo and Bamana helmet masks and derives its power from the accumulated sacrificial offerings that created the crusty surface instead of from the magical ingredients in a cup. The imported mirrors and base from a wine glass that form the eyes confirm the piece as a contemporary object.

Apply to objects where number equals 1997.24