Buffalo Mask Representing the Fon
Bamileke culture, Cameroon
20th century
Wood, pigment,
The buffalo mask is one of two prominent zoomorphic masks produced by the Bamileke culture, the other being the elephant mask. These masks are owned and worn by the fon, the Bamileke king, and they represent the power and strength of the king; they also symbolize how fons are believed to possess the supernatural ability to actually change into these animals. The masks are danced in order to encourage a successful hunt or harvest and in celebrations held during the dry season. Expertly crafted buffalo and elephant masks elevate the status of the fon as well as the status of the artist who created them.
Bamileke culture, Cameroon
20th century
Wood, pigment,
The buffalo mask is one of two prominent zoomorphic masks produced by the Bamileke culture, the other being the elephant mask. These masks are owned and worn by the fon, the Bamileke king, and they represent the power and strength of the king; they also symbolize how fons are believed to possess the supernatural ability to actually change into these animals. The masks are danced in order to encourage a successful hunt or harvest and in celebrations held during the dry season. Expertly crafted buffalo and elephant masks elevate the status of the fon as well as the status of the artist who created them.