|
Cameroon Grasslands, 20th Century, Colonial Period
This mask represents
the elephant and the leopard, royal symbols of the king's power
and wealth. According to Bamileke legend, the king can transform
himself into either of these animals at will.
Such a mask would have
been worn in a biannual dance by the king and members of the Kuosi
association, an elite group of Bamileke men. Dance costumes often
included luxury items such as elaborate beaded garments, feathered
and sculpted headdresses, indigo-dyed royal cloths and leopard pelts.
The large ears and hanging
trunk of the mask are indicative of an elephant. Kings are said
to have accomplished legendary deeds while in the form of an elephant,
such as moving giant trees blocking their way. The king faces similar
obstacles as the leader of his people. Not only does the elephant
evoke a sense of might and majesty, but their ivory tusks were a
source of wealth, exchanged for beads and other goods.
The spots of the leopard
are reflected in the beadwork patterns. The strength, power, speed,
and cunning of the leopard are also characteristics equated with
kingship.
This mask was generously
donated by Richard and Barbara Faletti and is part of the Richard
and Barbara Faletti Family Collection of West African Cultural Artifacts.
|
