DEGE MASK

Dege Mask.

An African mask depicting the black monkey “Dege,” from the Dogon people. The Dogon are an ethnic group in Mali. Masks crafted by this African tribe come in various styles, employing different geometric shapes in their designs, depending on the animal the mask is meant to represent. Most masks feature large eyes and stylized features, often painted or colored with various substances. The Dogon have been using masks since ancient times, particularly during the Dama ceremony, a memorial ritual for the deceased, believed to guide them to the realm of ancestors and restore order in the universe. These ceremonies often require a large attendance, with several hundred accompanying the deceased. Masks also appear in “baga-bundo” rites, performed before the burial of a Dogon male, which typically involve fewer participants. Inspiration for the masks comes from the animals found in their region, with common depictions including antelopes, rabbits, lions, hyenas, cows, birds, and monkeys.

The specific mask represents the black monkey Dege. The Dogon typically use three types of monkey masks, distinguished only by color rather than shape. The black monkey is known as Dege, the white monkey as Omono, and the red monkey as Ko.

Dimensions: 33.5 x 18.5 x 16 cm

Weight: 1 kg

The mask is in excellent condition.