The mask of the hyena (suruku) was worn by a male initiate during the culminate process of their intellectual and spiritual education, upon entry to the Bambara Kore society. This striking Kore mask depicts the long narrow face of a hyena, in which the wide, open jaw of the animal is visually emphasised. Over time, the surface of the wood has become weathered and eroded, resulting in a complex interplay of darker and lighter areas, as well as an overall textured, raw quality.
The formal vocabularies of traditional African masks are recognised as influencers on early twentieth-century avant-garde European art movements, such as 'Cubism'. Lesser known, however, is the relationship between African masks and the work of Polish-British and Royal Academician artist, Josef Herman (1911-2000) - the former collector of this mask.
A photograph shows Herman living with his African art collection, in which masks and figures are displayed in his home and studio. Hanging on the wall behind him, is this particular Bambara Kore Society hyena mask.
Ex Josef Herman Collection, UK
Estimated Period: First Half 20th Century
Height: 45cm
Width: 20cm
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