African Tribal Art: Baga People, Guinea, West Africa: Helmet mask with a snake. Late 19th Century (Circa 1890). Carved wood and pigments, mounted on a custom-made steel stand.

The serpent (Kalimbe, or Bansonyi) refers to a protective spirit manifested in the form of a snake that presides over male initiation ceremonies in the Baga culture.

Many helmet-style masks feature holes along the lower rim, by which whey are attached to a costume. This mask, without holes, shows wear from being held above the head by hand.

10.5H x 7W x 41.5L, 43H on stand (inches).

Private Collection, Massachusetts, Private Collection, New York

Good, aged condition, with signs of wear and use.

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