_The Power of the Unknown
_Komo Kun (Head of Komo), The Bamana People of Mali, 20th Century. Feathers, wood, quills, horns, animal hair. Height 23". Gift of William W. Brill. 89.15.15. Herbert F. Johnson Museum of Art, Cornell University
This is a ceremonial headdress worn by the Komo maskers of the Bamana people. It is comprised of a collection of quills, fibers, animal hair, feathers, and various other materials. The abstract form that is created vaguely resembles that of the head of an animal, although it is not meant to be. The form of this mask is meant to be mysterious and unknown. A dark-gray material is coated onto the surface and antelope horns and animal bones are embedded into it. The masquerades that these masks are worn for are called Komo masquerades and are very exclusive; only men and Komo members are allowed to witness and perform such rituals. The masker’s entire body is covered and hidden from view. The mask is worn during these masquerades to evoke a certain range of emotions and reactions. It is covered in all this mysterious and unknown material, including all the animal bones, teeth, and other parts, to instill fear in those who look upon its gnarly and fierce-looking surface. The more of these mysterious and unknown items are accumulated and piled upon the surface of this mask, the more perceived power this Komo Kun possesses.
This is a ceremonial headdress worn by the Komo maskers of the Bamana people. It is comprised of a collection of quills, fibers, animal hair, feathers, and various other materials. The abstract form that is created vaguely resembles that of the head of an animal, although it is not meant to be. The form of this mask is meant to be mysterious and unknown. A dark-gray material is coated onto the surface and antelope horns and animal bones are embedded into it. The masquerades that these masks are worn for are called Komo masquerades and are very exclusive; only men and Komo members are allowed to witness and perform such rituals. The masker’s entire body is covered and hidden from view. The mask is worn during these masquerades to evoke a certain range of emotions and reactions. It is covered in all this mysterious and unknown material, including all the animal bones, teeth, and other parts, to instill fear in those who look upon its gnarly and fierce-looking surface. The more of these mysterious and unknown items are accumulated and piled upon the surface of this mask, the more perceived power this Komo Kun possesses.