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Estate item.
Information is with Google search…
Carved wooden Sénoufo deguele, or tchologo helmet mask headdress originating from Côte d'Ivoire in West Africa.
I have no idea of age. Note wear, damage, defects. May have had horns or hair on rear of head. See all images. Sold as shown. Note hole around bottom edge for attachment to head or other textiles.
Display or museum?
Fee free to share any information. Has a small numbered sticker where it may have been in an sale many years ago.
Cultural Context: Traditionally carved by Senufo artists, these large helmet masks (deguele) were used during ceremonies and masquerades associated with the Poro society, often worn in pairs (male and female) to symbolize generational continuity and community vitality.
Securing the Fiber Costume: They were used to thread heavy cords that anchored a thick, full-body suit made of woven raffia, fibers, or textiles. This completely concealed the dancer's skin, hands, and feet, transforming them from a human into a spirit entity.
Securing an Interior Ring or Cushion: Sometimes, a fiber ring or padded organic cushion was lashed through these holes to sit inside the dome, absorbing sweat and helping the mask sit securely and comfortably balanced on the performer's head during intense movements.
Similar shaped club, West African Leopard Society.
Bin:din
