Vintage Bozo Tribe Mask

This one-of-a-kind mask was handmade by the Bozo Tribe in Mali. Our masks were carved from a solid piece of wood, forming a rather heavy sculpted block with a narrow cavity. They are probably about 20 years old and were originally attached to a pole and carried by a dancer in a regatta, much like a large marionette.

The Bozo are primarily fishermen and have a wonderful creation story. Neighbors of the Dogon who reside on the shores of the Niger River, the Bozo are the 'first twins' according the tradition and worship Faro the spirit of water. The ram, valued throughout this region, was sacrificed for the first time by God to redeem the errors committed by Mousso Koroni, the 'ancient little woman.' An era of disorder, violence and sterility was followed by a period of prosperity, order and peace.