Villain of the Bush | A Monkey Mask

The Dogon believe that monkeys represent all things wild, dangerous, and standoffish, especially since the creatures are a huge threat to their crops. All these behaviorisms are the exact opposite of how a proper Dogon individual should act according to cultural codes. Monkeys have a place in Dogon spirituality as masks and are sectioned into three different kinds: "Ko" (red monkey), "Omono" (white monkey), and "Dege" (black monkey). The mask shown here is most likely a black monkey mask, known as the villain of the bush, that represents gluttony and evil. They are used at a celebration to end the period of mourning, called the "Dama". 

Dogon/Mali Culture

ca. 19th/20th century

Wood, Sculpture

Gift of Martha and Robert Fogelman

2008.2.89