Banda Mask

Banda masks are more commonly associated with the Baga, Lauma and Nalu groups in Guinea, but have also been known to be used by Soso [Susu] people. This example has typical long horns, and has been painted blue, with white decoration. In Guinea, Banda, or Landa, masks are part of the circumcision ceremony for young boys and commonly depict a mixture of crocodile and human features. The masks are generally worn flat on the head, or sloping forward at an angle, over the face.

Further Information

• Type: Masks, headdresses
• Object: Banda Mask
• Materials: Vegetable, organic fibre, Wood
• Culture Group: Other, Soso
• Dimensions: 1920mm [L] x 400mm [W] x 220mm [C]
• Production Date: Pre 1979
• Associated Places: Unknown
• Associated People: Unknown
• Museum: British Museum
• Accession Number: BM:Af.1979.1.2947

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