Rare ritual helmet hood / mask attachment of the Komo society – Bamana (Bamana), Mali – mid-20th - Burkina Faso

Upon invocation comes an exceptionally rare, ritual-used cap- or helmet-mask object of the Komo secret society of the Bamana (Bamana) from Mali (West Africa). This museum piece of a collection originates from an old German private collection (an estate of a discerning ethnographic hobbyist) and is in a fascinating, pristine original condition.
Details & Features:
Function & Context: These hoods were worn exclusively by the highest dignitaries and initiation masters of the secret Komo society during nocturnal ceremonies, to channel magical powers and protect the village from evil spirits.
Construction & Materials: The inner framework consists of a traditionally woven plant fiber and basketry, while the outside is covered with a rough, thick fabric that has been darkened by the characteristic sacred mud and offerings substance patina (Boli crust).
Adornments: The hood is encircled all around and elaborately decorated at the frontal forehead with real, individually sewn cowrie shells, arranged in geometric clusters and traditionally standing for prosperity and spiritual protection.
Accessory: A mighty, upward-rising and organically curved power element (scepter/horn form), tightly wrapped with ritual patinated fabric strips.
Authentic Condition: Absolutely honest collection piece. Inside are the tattered remnants of the original interior lining, made of handwoven African cotton fabric, worn and deteriorated from decades of use and age. The age-related flaws and cracks in the fabric testify to genuine ritual use in the field. Uncleaned and completely untouched!
Measurements:
Height roughly 48 cm, bottom diameter approx. 26 cm
A highly interesting object for discerning collectors of African secret society objects (Tribal Art) with excellent provenance. Shipping is carried out in extremely secure packaging and fully insured.