Very old Loniake/Mpie mask, Burkina Faso, early 20th century

Masks like this are now quite rare. The Islamization of that region is largely to blame for this. This one is certainly rare due to its age which is early 20th century. The iron mask has a deep corrosion patina appropriate to its age.

This mask belonged to the Tusyâ population group, which consists of only 22,000 people and is located in the extreme southwestern part of Burkina Faso between Oradora and Banfora. The mask has been used during initiation ceremonies. These types of masks are made by a blacksmith and consist of a rectangular sheet of iron, two dimensional and called Loniake. The diagonal cross is inlaid with seeds, abri beans. On top is the head of a bird, Caloa, symbolizing the spirit of the initiated boy's clan. The sides are pierced with holes where a cord could be attached. Locally these masks are called Mpie or Sira Kono. When they were not being worn they hung outside the house for everyone to admire. The initiation took place in two phases. Those who were not initiated were also not allowed to marry. During the initiation, the boy is given a name that is secret and may not be used by women and children in the village. In order of importance these include names like, the heron, songbird, hare, stork, partridge, kingfisher, panther, cat, monkey, forest pig and forest buffalo. After the initiation, the boy was allowed to keep the mask. The masks are mainly placed on home altars to show that the owner remained loyal to his ancestors throughout generations.

A beautiful, authentic, very old mask. See the photos for the condition. The mask is placed on a professional custom made stand.

Length: 50 cm, including stand almost 55 cm
Width: 23 cm
Weight: 1257 grams
Origin: Burkina Faso
Date: Early 20th century
Provenance: Obtained in situ by Alimata Soureamaa