Royal Buffalo Mask (Primary Title)
Buffalo Mask (Alternate Title)
Unknown (Artist)
In reference to its great strength and cunning, the African Cape Buffalo is an important symbol of royalty in the Grassfields kingdoms of Cameroon. Images of buffalo appear on royal jewelry and thrones, and as palace decoration and masks. Customarily, the thrones and masks consist of carved wooden forms that are completely covered with glass beads or metal sheathing, such as this dramatic example.
It is within the king’s prerogative to grant the use of the buffalo image to men belonging to kwifoyns—associations of civic leaders responsible for enforcing laws, overseeing criminal justice, and upholding the social values in the kingdom. As can be seen in the example with the feather cape that is displayed behind this beaded work, the masks owned by kwifoyn members are not beaded. Beads, cowrie shells, and brass sheathing is reserved for items owned by the king.
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
