BAMILEKE, CAMEROON
WOOD, HEIGHT 45CM

Masks were traditionally worn at annual festivities or at funerals of important dignitaries.  Masks representing females, males or animals were displayed by a succession of dancers. There are various kinds of male masks carved with different coiffures. In this mask 19 individual heads make up the hair and a beard with the ears tucked in between. There is also exquisite detail on eyebrows, eyes, nose, and mouth with individual teeth carved. Very good strong wood, excellent condition.