Bede mask of a young Fulani woman. - Dogon - Mali (No reserve price)

Traditional fiber mask of the Dogon from Mali, of the bede type, depicting a young Fulani or Fulbe woman.
The mask is made of braided and twisted plant fibers. The face is geometrically constructed and decorated with cowrie shells. The long dark fiber strands represent hair. On top of the head is the characteristic tall comb, finished with a row of green, blue and a few red beads.
The mask measures about the size of a human head and is constructed as a hood: it can be slipped completely over the head. The long fiber strands hang down around the head.
The bede mask belongs to the wide variety of mask types within Dogon culture. Such masks can appear during the dama, the ceremonial mask-dances associated with funeral rites and the transition of the deceased to the world of the ancestors. The character of the young Fulani woman is traditionally depicted by a male dancer.
Purchased personally by the current owner on a trip through Mali in 2007. The exact place of purchase is no longer known; it is possible that the mask was acquired outside the Dogon region.
There is no documentation available regarding the date of manufacture or any actual ceremonial use. The object is therefore offered as a traditional Dogon-type mask, with no claim that this specific specimen was worn during a ritual dama.
Dimensions:
Height: approx. 38 cm
Diameter: approx. 18 cm
Good, original condition. The plant fibers show discoloration, wear and small irregularities that are clearly visible in the photos. Not restored or cleaned.