Ceremonial Figure - Dogon People - Mali

Price: $1,200.00


 


During the Dama, a final commemorative ceremony for a Dogon elder, hundreds of masked dancers perform including several different animal forms. They link contemporary Dogon society & a mythical time & are used to counteract the negative effects of death. The masks are sacred & full of magic power. The legends & special features of each mask is handed down from generation to generation & is only available to the initiated members of the awa society. It is generally believed, however, that animals of the bush all know the future & represent knowledge, power & wisdom. The masked ritual ushers in a new existence for the deceased, that of the ancestor.

34.75"H x 5.25"W x 5.5"D