Large initiation mask - Wood - NTOMOKUM - BAMBARA - MALI

The Ntomo society is the first among six main societies, or initiation stages of the Bambara. Masks named Ntomokum are taken out and danced during rites related to the circumcision of the Bilakoro (uncircumcised children) , the Ntomo. This mask with a human face is worn by elders during the ceremonies. It is topped by “straight teeth”, which explains why the name of “comb” is often attributed to it. Masks topped by four “teeth” represent the feminine gender, whereas the masculine masks have three teeth. The masculine mask with six horns - which is the case of this mask - symbolises the six senses necessary to men for the mythical comprehension of the origin of men and of the World. The mask with seven horns represents the masculine and feminine duality, and by extension, marriage. The forehead of this mask is topped by a head with a long neck. The Bambara style is both rough, “cubist” and refined. Brown patina of wear.