Vintage African Wooden Ceremonial Bobo Mask

34"W x 34"D x H - Africa - Wood

This mask is from Burkana Faso and was collected from the Bobo peoples. The Bobo are a Mande ethnic group living primarily in Burkina Faso, with some living north in Mali. Bobo is also a shortened name of the second-largest city in Burkina Faso, Bobo-Dioulasso. African masks are used in rituals and ceremonies. They might serve an important role in rituals or ceremonies to ensure a good harvest, address tribal needs in time of peace or war, or convey spiritual presences in initiation rituals or burial ceremonies. Some masks represent the spirits of deceased ancestors.