Bwa Mask, Burkina Faso

3D Model

These masks are plank shaped with a circular face.

The plank section is decorated with geometric patterns which are an essential design element in many African masks and carvings. Geometric pattern creates an external rhythm which echoes the internal spiritual energy of the artwork. It can also be used as a coded language where the design communicates secret knowledge to those in the know.

The designs on this Bwa Mask, which is used to celebrate boys’ initiation into adulthood, represent information about the myths and morality that the boys must learn before they can be accepted into adult society.