English: Mask, Bassa peoples, Liberia, Late 19th to early 20th century, Wood, bone, iron

Although this mask is the senior entertainment mask of the men's No association, it emphasizes desirable traits for women to emulate through its graceful, smooth dance style. It was not worn in front of the dancer's face but was attached to a basketlike frame that was concealed by the costume and fully covered the dancer's head. The wearer looked out from under the mask through openings in the costume. Most examples have a stained black surface that differs from the natural aged wood of this piece.

(National Museum of African Art)