In Mali and Burkina Faso, the Marka people whose settlement region extends from the north of the Bambara territory to the Senegalese border, are famous for their masks and puppets. The Marka are a Mande subgroup. This ethnic group is independent from the Bambara but their styles show a strong Bambara influence. The Marka are famous for their masks and puppets. Similar to Bambara's ntomo society masks, Marka masks are generally carved with horns, comb or crest on top of the head, but unlike Bambara masks they are often covered with metal sheeting.

The Marka dress their masks in gaily-colored costumes made of cloth; they always appear in pairs, to represent man's courting of woman. Masks with a comb, similar to the ntomo masks of the Bambara, are danced in the context of adolescent boys’ initiation rites.   

This colorful mask shows lively variation from the typical N'tomo masks - its face is wider, its horns are thicker and the colors brighter. It shows local tribesman's inspiration and ability to stay within the cannon of the culture but add his own style.

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Product Details:

• Size: 22" x 8" x 8"
• Shipping: $40.00
• Material: Wood, animal hair
• Quantity: Sorry, this product is not available
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