Bedu mask
about 1960
Artist
- Sirikye, Nafana, Africa, 1930-
- Born: Sorobango, Côte d'Ivoire
Culture
Nafana
Country
Ghana, Côte d'Ivoire
Object
mask
Medium
wood, paint, and metal
Accession Number
1997.43
Credit Line
Native Arts acquisition funds
Sirikye (Nafana, born 1930), Bedu mask, about 1960. Wood, paint, and metal; 96 ¾ x 29 ½ x 4 1/8 in. Denver Art Museum: Native Arts acquisition funds, 1997.43
Dimensions
height: 96 3/4 in, 245.745 cm; width: 29 1/2 in, 74.93 cm; depth: 4 1/8 in, 10.4775 cm
Inscription
Gold and black "31" sticker at brace for head.
Department
Native Arts
Collection
Arts of Africa
Once a year, dancers don giant masks representing Bedu, an animal spirit that lives in the wilderness. They perform acrobatic dances, model ideal conduct, and chide villagers who have misbehaved during the year. The artist Sirikye defined the look of these masks, which feature large round faces, triangular mouths, and geometric patterns.
Known Provenance
Collection of Rocky Mountain Regional Conservation Center before 1997; Denver Art Museum purchase 1997
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