Title: Bamileke Elephant MaskDate/Period: 19th CenturyOrigin: Cameroon, AfricaDimension: 15in X 8in X 28inMaterials: Textile FabricAdditional Information: In the case of the Bamileke peoples, the members of the Kuosi society (elephant society) are the only ones authorized to dance elephant masquerades, which convey the authority, affluence, and strength of the fon (king, ruler, or chief). Mask performers don a hooded facial covering perforated with beaded or trimmed eyeholes (for the individual to see). It might have other facial features, such as a stylized nose or a small hole for a mouth. The hooded facial covering includes two long panels (one in the front that evokes an elephant’s trunk and one in the back), and large discs (which are generally circular but can be slightly oblong or trapezoidal) that allude to an elephant’s ears. In addition, mask performers usually wear prestige items: a tunic or skirts made from top (patterned cotton cloth dyed with indigo), a conical headdress constructed with red feathers, and a leopard skin pelt on the back. They may also carry a beaded horse tail flywhisk, which is also a prestige item.Members of the Kuosi society are themselves powerful people: royalty, court officials, titled individuals, and high-ranking warriors. They appear and perform at public celebrations and funerals of those associated with the society and the fon. While the fon is directly associated with the Kuosi society and might dance, he might or might not wear the hooded facial covering
Reserve: $800.00
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