Bidjogo Bull Mask Analysis

The Bissagos Islands on the Atlantic coast of Guinea-Bissau are home to the Bidjogo peoples. Similar to other African peoples, the Bidjogo possess unique forms of art. The dugn’be “the ox raised in the village” mask is a rather intriguing piece of art. The mask is commonly used in initiation ceremonies. This mask, made in the second quarter of the twentieth century, is an excellent example of how wonderful African art is. The piece is 15 ½ by 19 by 9 inches. Many would consider the art life-sized, or slightly smaller. A wide variety of materials were used in its construction. Although much of the bull is comprised of wood, elements such as glass, cow horns, fiber, and pigment have been specifically arranged to mimic a real bull. The majority …show more content…
Belligerent villages began stealing stock from one another, and traders started borrowing cattle on credit. This only stiffened existing tension generated from social and political issues. When the French refused to pay an important debt to the Bidyogo, chaos ensued. The French were taken as prisoners, who in turn attacked Caravela’s inhabitants, and nearly burned their whole village to the ground. Tension would not deteriorate until the French demanded a treaty from the …show more content…
This grade lasts for ten years. Members in cabaro have not gone through initiation, so are not considered responsible adults yet. Cabaro is the society in which the dugn’be mask is featured. Although a wild bull is commonly depicted, other aggressive animals such as hippopotamuses, sharks, swordfish, and others are used. These heavy helmet masks are accompanied by sticks with dozens on bronze bells attached, and raffia bundles. Cabaros move with an uncontrolled violence. During the performance they are yelling, and casting themselves at spectators. Violent movements represent the aggressive nature of the animals being portrayed, and the reckless nature of post-adolescent life. As mentioned, the small cord running through the nostrils of the dugn’be mask help the initiate control the mask. However, the cord historically represents how the initiate is like a tethered ox. His strengths must be encouraged and controlled like an ox, proving he is ready for the next phase in his life. Despite the dugn’be mask playing such a key role in the initiation process, it is usually abandoned after their initiation is complete. Does this represent the idea that adolescence is in the