Ntomo Mask - Bambara - Mali

Mask - Bambara - Wood - Mali - 47 cm.

An old original Bambara Ntomo mask used during initiation rituals for youths in the Bamana society.
The upper part is comb-shaped. It has 5 branches (female).
Made from a dark, well-aged patinated wood.
The mask shows large rectangular cavities forming the eyes and mouth.
Around the eye contour are glued red Abrus seeds.
The whole is reinforced by nailed metal plates.
Beautiful brown patina. Good condition
It comes from the Segou region.
Private collection.