Description

This zoomorphic mask is very similar to another in our collection, 924.9.3, and is mostly differentiated by the crown of coiled snakes over the head. This mask apparently depicts a warthog, an animal most closely related to a pig. It features a long snout, tucked ears, almond-shaped eyes, and horns protruding along the head. Within Yoruba folklore, pigs and related animals are often regarded as crude, destructive, and uncivilized. For these reasons, masks which depict them are often used to represent people who abuse their privilege of being in positions of authority. The Yoruba often use coiled snakes to represent caution or vigilance, a theme that is fitting for this context. As a helmet mask, it is regularly worn over the head of a performer, with a fine mesh hood and tunic-like garment to cover the face and body.