King Paris Congolese American, b. 1988
96.5 x 27.9 x 17.8 cm
Origin - Bwa, Burkina Faso
Use: Wisdom and Protection
The Bwa owl mask represents the mystical and protective spirit of the owl, a creature revered for its wisdom and magical power by the Bwa people of Burkina Faso. They are worn by dancers in rituals and festivals, including initiations, funerals, and agricultural ceremonies, to invoke blessings and honor nature spirits. The mask is believed to bring protection, fertility, and blessings to the community and is an important part of the long-standing tradition of mask carving.