MALINKE/BAMANA, Mali. Wood, beautiful brown patina. Superb geometric construction of this ancient zoomorphic "Nama Kun or Suruku koun" mask from the Korè society, featuring a hyena. The performance of Bamana masks allows the Nyama (life force) to be released in a controlled manner, and the release of this omnipresent energy helped to maintain order within the community. Hyenas, renowned for their cunning and malice, are known to have a particularly powerful life force. Height: 35.5 cm. Width: 18 cm. Minor damage.