Bozo Colorful Wood Bird Mask Headdress Mali

Bozo headpieces are used and performed by young men of the region during the Sogo ba masquerade. Dance troops of young men, members of local youth groups, sing, dance, drum, manipulate puppets or dance masks in creating performances called Sogo Ba. Though considered to be a form of entertainment the performances are directed towards a description of the moral universe and the imperfection of humans and the need to educate people as regards ethical behavior and how to attain a religious way of life and how to maintain social and familial stability. Performances include religion, history, observations of local Contemporary political events, satire of behavior and simple entertainment through the music and dance. The surface has probably been repainted a number of times and reflects the age and long use of this mask by the Bozo.

Approximate Age: 20th Century
People: Bozo
Country of Origin: Mali

Material: wood, pigment

Damage/Repair: Natural wood flaws
Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.   Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use.  We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings.  Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage.