Kanaga

Kanaga" mask. Dogon ethnicity. Mali.
Wood, pigments and fibers.
Nice patina of use.
Measurements: 93 cm. height.

Mask of dance of the Dogon people, with a face carved in wood crowned by a classic construction that unites the earth and the sky.

The masks are objects loaded with a deep religious value. They are the visible image of the spirits or ancestors who manifest themselves in the dance. The masks not only cover the face of the dancer, but are inseparable from his dress made of cloth, palm leaves or raffia. Sometimes they are complemented with canes, stilts and rattles. They can have human or animal features, the colors used in the decoration bring a meaning to each piece.

The Dogon ethnic group is located in the Mali area. It is known for its traditions, its masked dances and wood carving. Dogon art consists mainly of sculpture. It revolves around religious values, ideals and freedoms. Dogon sculptures are not meant to be seen in public, and are usually hidden from public view in the homes of families. On the other hand, the masks are meant to be seen as they are used in rituals and dances.