About this artwork
Among the Senufo, poro is the generic name for age-grade associations whose functions include interceding with supernatural forces, honoring ancestors, and educating young people. The many elements of composite horizontal masks called kponyungo portray powerful spirits that escort the deceased to the other world and protect the community from supernatural danger. Expressing its potency in that realm, this mask’s animal references include a crocodile’s jaw, a hyena’s snout, and horns of both a ram and an antelope.
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Status
- Currently Off View
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Department
- Arts of Africa
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Culture
- Senufo
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Title
- Helmet Mask (Kponyungo)
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Place
- Côte d'Ivoire (Object made in)
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Date
- 1850–1950
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Medium
- Wood and pigment
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Dimensions
- 27.9 × 27.3 × 102.9 cm (11 × 10 3/4 × 40 1/2 in.)
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Credit Line
- The Art Institute of Chicago, African and Amerindian Art Purchase Fund
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Reference Number
- 1963.842
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.