Collecting African Tribal Art : Symbiotic relations, Logic and being Gracious.

This post explores various reflections around a single relation reflected in the Tussian Helmet mask. This is the relation between the buffalo and the egret. I remember as a young boy asking my mom about the egrets standing tall and silent on cattle feeding in an abandoned golf course. The abstraction of the buffalo in the mask typically reflects this and shows one or two egrets standing atop the mask (Kablé). In reality the egrets feed on insects disturbed by the movement of buffalo or cattle through the muddy grassland (commensalism). Occasionally the egrets also feed on parasitic ticks and insects which can harm the buffalo (mutualism).

Northern Tussian or Siemu, Burkina Faso
Wood, fabric; h. 21¼”,
Afrika Museum, Berg en Dal, Netherlands

Symbiotic relations refer to interactions between different species that live in close proximity, where their lives are intertwined. These relationships can be categorized into mutualism, where both parties benefit, commensalism, where one benefits without affecting the other significantly, and parasitism, where one benefits at the expense of the other. These dynamics are not exclusive to the natural world and can be observed in various human interactions and partnerships. In human relations, a mentorship could be mutualistic, where both gain knowledge, while a one-sided friendship might be commensal, benefiting one more than the other.

The relationship between the egret and the water buffalo is a classic example of mutualism. The egret benefits by feeding on insects stirred up by the buffalo’s movement, while the buffalo gets relief from pests. This mirrors mutualistic human relations, like collaborative work where both parties gain. Commensalism could be seen in situations where one person benefits from a friendship, like emotional support, without directly impacting the other’s well-being. Commensalism can also be everyday transitory interactions such as giving up a plane seat or a bus seat for a fellow passenger.

The actualization of the relation is quite separate from simply having an understanding of the logical differences in definition. There are many times when a person needs to tap into a fountain of graciousness and anticipation before a non-negative symbiotic relation can be initiated. In our modern world initial discussions center around ‘alphaspeak’, first impressions, stereotypes or the laying of a framework to determine who is technically right or wrong about a particular topic. In muddied semi toxic environments it is easy to lose the path to commensalism or mutualism. The example of the relation between the powerful buffalo and the egret does not simply encourage the development of natural attributes but also promotes the development of positive social and cultural values.

Collecting African Tribal Art : Haunted by the Tussian helmet.

In 2015 I did an interpretive blog post on the Tussian and Siemu representation of the ‘buffalo’ helmet masks (Kablé). The headdress is related to initiation into the powerful Dó association and is central to spiritual and social practices of Tussian culture in Burkina Faso. Each helmet is topped with any of a variety of animals associated with guardian spirits. Here’s a great article and overview of the Tussian helmet mask.

Senufo Headdress – Geoffrey Holder provenance (2016)

In 2016 I tapped out on the Senufo helmet mask (above) with a Geoffrey Holder provenance – I was pretty disappointed.

Tussian Buffalo Helmet – Kablé

Fast forward to 2023 and I finally pick up (to my relief) my first Tussian helmet mask. It’s been a tough 8 years but the wait and the stress leading up to the auction was worth it.

There were mixed emotions because the piece was presented at a small auction for a couple who were downsizing. The sale didn’t have the full reach that it could have if it had made it to LiveAuctioneers or a major auction house and the description of African tribal art pieces is easier to determine with the use of Google lens (for example). Trust and believe there are really good pieces out there. Just be patient, continue looking and keep doing diligent research!!

Tussian, Siemu Buffalo Helmet [1]

The Tussian, and Siemu tribes of Burkina Faso are small tribes which may share a common ancestry. Although they have developed cultural differences, they maintain a similar style in their representation of the buffalo helmets.

There’s no getting around it. The numerous times I saw photos of the helmets shown below I sort of missed the mark. Once understood however the symbology serves to enhance the appreciation of the art. Another aspect of this is the quiet symbiotic relationship (read as tolerance) the egret, and buffalo share. In collecting African Tribal art the development of the appreciation for pieces (learning curve) is a driving force/component for expanding one’s collection.

[E1] Helmet Northern Tussian or Siemu, Burkina Faso

The main horns at the sides are a no-brainer, but the “stylized representation of a buffalo with a pair of curving horns projecting from a flat, rectangular head, a tubular body standing on four legs, and a vertically projecting tail” totally eluded me. The upright figures between the buffalo’s horns, on the tail, or the rear near the tail represent egrets, oxpeckers, or both.

[E2] Helmet – Northern Tussian or Siemu

One notable difference with the helmet shown below is the absence of the two large curving horns which can be attached to the helmet with a fiber cord, or leather strips.

[E3] Buffalo Helmet Mask (Kablé)

Why the imagery, and representation of the buffalo?
“The buffalo holds special cultural significance in many parts of Africa. Life other powerful animals, such as the leopard, elephant, and ram, the buffalo is often associated with ideas of leadership and prestige. Allen Roberts (1955:22-25) has pointed out that both the animal’s behavior and it’s anatomy have captured people’s imagination. The fact that buffalo live in herds and cows usually bear a single young has led to an ideological linking of the animal with humans.”

[1] Buffalo Helmets of Tussian and Siemu Peoples of Burkina Faso. African Arts, Vol 41 #3, pg 26-43.
[E1] Afrika Museum, Berg en Dal, Netherlands
Photo credit : Ferry Herrebrugh, Amstelveen, Africa Museum
[E2] Acquired by Herta Haselberger in Bobo-Dioulasso (1967)
Photo credit : Sotheby’s Paris
[E3] Metmuseum
Buffalo Helmet Mask (Kablé)
Date: 19th–mid-20th century
Geography: Burkina Faso, Province du Kénédougou
Culture: northern Tussian or Siemu
Medium: Wood, cane, fiber ropes
Dimensions: H. 27 1/2 x W. 14 3/4 x D. 11 7/8in. (69.9 x 37.5 x 30.2cm)
Classification: Wood-Sculpture
Credit Line: The Michael C. Rockefeller Memorial Collection, Bequest of Nelson A. Rockefeller, 1979
Accession Number: 1979.206.47