Senufo Mask, Côte d'Ivoire

Members of poro, a Senufo initiation association, wore such small, beautifully carved masks as insignia. The term kpeliye'e, or "face of the jumping performer," refers to the dynamic performances audiences have continued to associate with the mask. These masks honored deceased Senufo elders and differ in their delicate style from the often frightening Senufo helmet masks also commonly used in the region.

The present mask, with its gently curved horns on top of the head and carved panel at each side of the face, demonstrates the delicate form and ornamentation of kpeliye'e masks. The forehead with geometric incisions: a rectangular motif towards the top and two lunar forms close to each temple. The eyebrows mirror these semi-circular motifs, framing the slit eyes: from it stems a long, thin nose. Incisions appear on either side of the nose and mouth.