A Jimini mask

A Jimini mask, Ivory Coast, collected in the region of Tanda,

The Djimini (also spelled Jimini or Dyimini) people of northeastern Côte d'Ivoire, particularly around the Tanda region, are renowned for their distinctive wooden masks. These masks are integral to the Do Society, a men's initiation and spiritual group that plays a central role in community rituals, including funerals and Islamic festivals like Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.

Djimini masks often feature elongated faces with stylized elements such as:
* Hornbill Beaks: A prominent projection from the forehead to the chin represents the hornbill bird, symbolizing fertility and ancestral spirits.
* Facial Scarification: Distinctive marks on the forehead and cheeks reflect cultural identity and aesthetics.
* Color Accents: Use of blue, red, and white pigments to highlight features, often applied using a mixture called koro (burnt foliage ashes mixed with palm oil)
* Influence from Neighboring Cultures: Incorporation of elements from Senufo Kpeliye masks, such as side appendages and stylized facial features.
These masks are more than artistic expressions; they are vital to the spiritual and social fabric of the Djimini people. They are used in ceremonies to honor ancestors, mark significant life events, and reinforce community bonds. The integration of Islamic practices with traditional beliefs is evident in the timing and nature of these rituals .
The Tanda region, being a cultural hub for the Djimini, has been a significant source for these masks, many of which are now part of museum collections and private holdings worldwide.
If you're interested in viewing or acquiring a Djimini mask, several galleries and museums feature them: Sothebys.com.

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Height: 42 cm
Weight: 970 g