“Wealth of Home and Hearth” – Mali

A man’s mask typical of the Warka tribe, worn during ceremonies intended to elicit strength, security, and livelihood for tribe members. The face is elongated, and the nose similarly long and narrow; the eyes are thin, hollow slits that stretch the width of the face. The mouth is carved with great care, and the entire front of the face is covered with gilded metal in a delicate cross-hatch design. The ears and hat are decorated with vivid blue-green threads.