This mask, representing an idealized human face, is of Diomande style : the face is oval, eyes are circular and forehead is slightly domed. The mouth is particularly marked, and enhanced with an old material piece. Embodiment of the wild bush spirits, this mask function is to maintain the vital strength within the village and to preserve peace.
This racing mask was worn by young men of the village during competitions organized for them (tankagle), during the dry season, and was taking part in manhood initiatory rites of men's secret societies (ge bon). The patina, as well as the wear of clamp rectangular holes, demonstrates clearly its great age and its ritual use (see picture of the inside carving). This mask, which is very ancient, has a very spectacular expression and a fine pure facture.
18^th / 19^th century.

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