Wood-carved marionette head with pronounced facial features including large bulging eyes, protruding ears, a long slender nose, a diminutive mouth showing teeth, and a multi-layered coiffure in black pigment/paint. The backside of the mask/marionette head has several holes for attachment, a fiber cord, and a varied patina.
Marionettes were used in the performances of burlesques and comedies. A human head like this example (known as the Merenkun), was used in public presentations of satire. Dance also plays an important role. Puppets, masks and people dance, each in their own way and for their own purpose. The dances of the puppets and masks (by hidden dancers) serve to express their characters, whereas the (visible) people-dancers are a means of expressing feelings of togetherness and joy.
Overall, the marionette shows good signs of ritual use and is presented on a substantial modern acrylic stand. This is an exceptional work of vintage carving from Mali and would be perfect in a wide range of interior environments from an entry to a great room or a study in a Modern, Mid-Century, Boho, or Organic Modern setting.
Place of Origin: Mali
Date of Manufacture: 1960s
Condition: Excellent
Wear: Consistent with age and use. Please refer to pictures.
Dimensions:
Carving: 15.25 in. H X 9 in. W X 9.5 in. D
Base: 8 in. Diam. X 3 in H
Total: 23.5 in. H
Reference:
The Met
Center for Puppetry Arts
Puppetry by Elisabeth Den Otter
SAM, Seattle Art Museum
Art Institute of Chicago
"Picturing the Animal," a digital exhibition of animals in visual and material culture curated by Danielle Raad, Curator at the Stanford University Archaeology Collections
Explore more Masks at Our Taste Design.
