Antique African Mask Bwa Tribe Burkino Faso Spirt Figure Plank Mask

Description

Amazing Antique Burkino Faso plank mask. Circa 1900. The mask is 39" tall x 11" wide x 11" deep. Overall excellent condition with wear to painted surfaces.
Among the southern Bwa peoples in Burkina Faso, large wooden plank masks are carved to represent various flying spirits that inhabit the natural world. These spirits, though largely invisible, are associated with water and can take physical form as insects that gather around a pool after a heavy rain or as a large water fowl, like an ibis. Some Bwa describe a mythological encounter in which a flying spirit appeared before a human, offering protection and service. A tall plank mask was created after this encounter to honor the spirit and ensure its continued beneficence.