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Antelope mask

Photo: Elizabeth Mann

Antelope mask

20th century

Burkina Faso , Mossi culture

Long attenuated horns adorn a face that has been streamlined into triangular forms.
No actual antelope looks anything like this. Instead, the mask merges human with animal essences into a spirit that is ready to dance, offer protection and enhance productivity. At the tip of the horns, a tuft of fibers ignites the spirit before the masquerader is seen in public.
Wood, natural pigments
Height: 52in. (132.1cm)
Gift of Dr. Oliver E. and Pamela F. Cobb
2012.29.17
Photo: Elizabeth Mann
location
Now on view at the Seattle Art Museum

Seattle Art Museum respectfully acknowledges that we are on Indigenous land, the traditional territories of the Coast Salish people. We honor our ongoing connection to these communities past, present, and future.

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