Kanaga Mask

Date20th century

Label TextDogon people rely on masks as vital conduits to abstract ideas of power and wisdom. Kanaga is among the best known by outsiders for its graphic appearance and dramatic performance. Within Dogon culture, it appears to be a conceptual backbone that defies quick interpretation. With a four-part, cross-like superstructure, it has been explained as being everything from a female spirit to a stork, a lizard or a hand. A multitude of Kanaga masks exist, and tend to be executed with a raw energy. This varied quality reflects the fact that virtually all young Dogon men carve them as a part of their initiation into a corporate body known as Ama. One of the most impressive sights from Dogon country is the movement of long lines of Kanaga masqueraders into a central space. Suddenly, the dancers whip their heads in vigorous arcing motions to touch the ground. This gesture has become a famous vision of the stamina of Dogon culture.

Object number2005.148

Credit LineGift of Dr. Oliver E. and Pamela F. Cobb, in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Seattle Art Museum

Dimensions37 x 18 x 8in. (94 x 45.7 x 20.3cm)

MediumWood, leather, chalk, charcoal