book chapter

Dogon masks

Institut d'EthnologieParis • Published In 1938 • Pages: HRAF MS: i, 899 leaves [original: xii, 896 ]

By: Griaule, Marcel, Winchell, Jean H..

Abstract
This work presents the results of the author's study of Dogon masks, data for which were collected in the course of investigations carried on in the escarpment of Bandiagara during three visits to the area in October-November 1931, January to April 1935, and February to October 1937. Prior to the presentation of his data on the masks, the author gives a brief introduction to the geography of the region, its basic economy, population characteristics, arts and crafts (e. g., blacksmithing, weaving, pottery making), territorial organization, traditional history, and religion. Following this Griaule begins to develop the main theme of this study through the focusing of attention on mythology which he feels is essential to a better understanding of the development of the masks. Texts of the myths, presented in the Sigui language, as well as discussions of mythical beings, the impersonal mythical principle (e.g., nyama), appear as Book I of this source. The repetition of mythical events, in the form of Sigui rituals, make up the second part of this work (Book II). Following in logical order, the funeral ceremonies of those men who had significant roles in the representation of the masks in the Sigui rituals, make up Book III, followed by the Book of Dama (Book IV), dealing with the ceremonies governing the departure of the soul. This section has been divided into four separate parts dealing with the rituals proper, the materials and descriptions of the masks and costumes, the rock paintings in the mask shelters, and finally the associated dances. The last section of this source is concerned with the mask altars and various other practices somewhat peripheral to the institution under consideration (p. 5).
Subjects
Mourning
Cult of the dead
Representative art
Sacred objects and places
Dance
Organized ceremonial
Literary texts
Mythology
Sodalities
Burial practices and funerals
culture
Dogon
HRAF PubDate
2000
Region
Africa
Sub Region
Western Africa
Document Type
book chapter
Evaluation
Creator Type
Ethnologist
Document Rating
5: Excellent Primary Data
Analyst
John Beierle ; 1986-1987
Field Date
1932-1937
Coverage Date
1931-1937
Coverage Place
Bandiagara Circle, Mopti Region, Mali
Notes
Marcel Griaule
Translation of: Masques Dogons
The original French text is not included
Because of poor quality, many graphics are not included
Includes bibliographical references (p. 824-882)
Translated for the HRAF files by Jean H. Winchell
LCCN
84155009
LCSH
Dogons (African people)