BWA

BURKINO FASO

These great plank masks (1-2 m in height) represent super-natural flying spirits from the Bush. These spirits provide their blessings and protection to the families that own them. Such forces were called Dyo. The masks were used as an aid to creating a stable co-existence with them. The masks were necessary at all important functions. At funerals, for example, they were required to ensure safe passage between this realm and the next. This mask gains an added dimension in these times of increased awareness of Nature and sustainable living.