Senufo mask with horns - Ivory Coast

Features and Design

The Senufo mask is characterized by its striking red color, a shade that symbolizes power, strength, and protection. This vibrant color is obtained through natural pigments and applied using traditional techniques, which reinforces the connection with the earth and the natural environment of the Senufo community. In addition to the red color, one of the most distinctive elements of this mask is the prominent horns. The horns on Senufo masks often represent powerful animals, such as the antelope, and symbolize strength, fertility, and spiritual protection.

The facial structure of the mask features elongated shapes, with exaggerated features like a broad forehead, stylized eyes, and a closed mouth. The design is simple yet powerful, giving it a striking presence in ceremonies.

Origin and Village

Originating from Senufo villages in northern Ivory Coast, this mask is part of a rich cultural tradition. Senufo villages are known for preserving ancestral practices, and masks play a central role in their rituals. In these communities, masks are primarily used in initiation rites, funerals, and agricultural ceremonies, where the horns and the red color of the mask symbolize the connection with ancestors and protective spirits.

Materials and Crafting

The Senufo mask is hand-carved from wood, a material carefully chosen for its durability and ability to maintain intricate details. The crafting process is meticulous, starting with carving the wood into stylized shapes and then painting the piece with natural pigments. The red color, in particular, is obtained from earth or minerals, while the horns are sculpted to represent animals that hold symbolic importance in Senufo culture.