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Helmet Mask
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
This type of helmet was worn in rituals demonstrating a boy’s transition from one age group to the next, prior to his actual initiation into the secret Poro society. The pre-initiates were viewed as unknowing and anxious oxen, so the horns on such helmets may refer to those of horned cattle. The female figure alludes to women’s supernatural powers, which assure the welfare of Poro members.
Cleveland Museum of Art’s own descriptionCredit lineHelmet Mask, early to mid-1900s. Africa, West Africa, Côte d'Ivoire, Senufo-style carver. Wood, upholstery studs, and colorant; overall: 34.9 cm (13 3/4 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Katherine C. White, 1975.152
