Description

A Bambara mask with an elongated face. It is made of wood painted with geometric figures. These masks are generally carved by blacksmiths who live in castes. The Bambara or Bamana ethnic group is the main ethnic group in Mali. They are found primarily in the west of the country, around the capital, Bamako. Among the Bambara, masks generally play a role in ceremonies related to the Creator God Faro, which bestows upon people all the qualities necessary to cultivate the fruits of the earth.