A large Senufo mask made of colored wood, decorated with an anthropomorphic figure

A large, colorful wooden Senufo mask, decorated with an anthropomorphic figure holding a bird's head (calaoh), large lateral horns (similar to those of a ram or antelope), and two lower tusks, is likely a variant of a key mask of Senufo culture, often associated with the Poro initiation society. This type of mask, called Kpeliye'e (or Kpelie), has delicate features. Although Kpeliye'e are generally smaller and have human features, Senufo masks frequently incorporate projections representing horns. The horns symbolize strength, protection, virility, and connection with the spirit world and nature. The ram or antelope are animals of great symbolic importance in many African cultures. The bird on the top is almost always the Yellow-casque Hornbill (or Kalao in Senufo). The hornbill is a sacred bird for the Senufo. It symbolizes the intellectual power, knowledge, wisdom, and authority that elders are expected to transmit to young initiates in Poro society. It is also considered the leader of all birds. The lower fangs, present at the tip of the jaws of some more aggressive zoomorphic masks, may represent strength, aggressive power, and protection against evil forces or witchcraft. In the context of initiation societies such as the Poro, they may symbolize the group's fighting and defensive capacity. This is a complex ceremonial object, likely used during the initiation rites of the Poro (the male initiation society that guides young men into adulthood). Dimensions: Height 79 cm X Width 22 cm X Depth 16 cm. As these are antique objects, they may show signs of wear. Photographs are an integral part of the description and condition.