The Kore is known as the seventh and last initiation society among the Bambara, that is, the highest universal intelligence, the knowledge of every fact that happened and the full awareness of God.
During the dances she was impersonated by the hyena mask or Korè Suruku.
The synthesis of the stylization realized in this mask by the skilful work of the sculptor is evident; few lines and some admirably executed curves contribute to make well the typical zoomorphic features of the hyena with its outstretched ears, the prominent forehead, the empty square eyes and the open mouth with a veiled hint of smile and at the same time manage to bring out psychologically also those typical of the Korè Suruku: the original, black, deep, nocturnal, mysterious and unfathomable knowledge.
This mask made with very few strokes of axe, without any frills or baroque, finally represents, visually at best, also the great lesson that the African Art has been able to give to the avant-garde of the twentieth century: synthesis.

Several small defects caused by woodworms and some skilful restorations in the area of the ears with removable wax.