Head of the Kono (Kono-kun)
Maker
Bamana
Maker
Malian
Label TextWide open jaws suggest a tribute to the hyena, said to possess enormous knowledge about the bush and its secrets. Being a nocturnal creature that lives in holes in the earth, the hyena is credited with an exceptional ability to smell and to see what is coming next. Kono performances are best known for their songs, which are delivered through a reed pipe to imitate the voice of conscience and point out the path of proper behavior.
Object number81.17.17
ProvenanceCollection of Wayne Long, Los Angeles, California; sold to Katherine White (1929-1980), Seattle, Washington, 1975; bequeathed to Seattle Art Museum, Seattle, Washington, 1981
Credit LineGift of Katherine White and the Boeing Company
Dimensions11 x 15 3/8 x 38 5/8 in. (27.9 x 39 x 98.1 cm)
MediumWood and pigment
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