Upper Niger region of Mali

Bambara (Bamana)

Wood, leather, strings
1800s
Length: 29.2 in
Other – Regalia – Headdress

The Bambara (Bamana) are an ethnolinguistic group found in the upper Niger region of Mali.  Their language, Bambara (Bamana), belongs to the Mande branch, like the Soninke and Malinke, of the Niger-Congo language family. 

This rare Bambara ‘human’ mask is characterized by a long human face, elongated nose, C-shaped ears, and protruding lips.  The mask is surmounted by an elaborate carved cap, upon which is a three-string harp surmounted by another mask above the pegs.  There are scarification marks on both faces.  This style possibly started in the Segou region. 

This Bambara mask is possibly of the “N’tomo” cult with its anthropomorphic face that the elders wear during ceremonies. The masks represent the legendary ancestors of the Bambara and are a symbol of protection.  The “N’tomo” cult consists of a series of power associations that Bambara (Bamana) boys join when they transition from youth to adulthood. These masks also receive offerings and sacrifices, and sometimes are solemnly buried after a ritual when they lose their sacred characteristic and when the intermediary role comes to an end.

Also seen in this collection is the Bambara (Bamana) “Chiwara” representing the antelope, associated primarily with agriculture