Mask (Primary Title)
Unknown (Artist)
This is a human character mask, possibly representing an ancestor or a hogon (village elder). Its form is very similar to the head at the base of the Great Mask. The large, round holes at either side of the mouth allow a wooden dowel to span the inside of the mask, forming a bit that the dancer can clench in his teeth to hold the mask in place during a performance. Starkly simple and delicate, this mask is a classic and very old example of Dogon carving.
Gift of Robert and Nancy Nooter
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
