Blacksmith's initiation mask. - Bambara - Mali

The iron masks are reserved for the blacksmith caste. Among the Bambara, as in many West African societies, the blacksmiths also act as gravediggers. Their wives, from the same caste, are matrons/midwives and potters.
These masks are worn during initiations concerning young adults.
The face with the long flat nose is edged by two snakes on each side. It is topped by a figure holding two spears, seeming to keep a third frontal snake in check.
Beautiful composition.

Height 35 cm × Width 20 cm × Depth 9 cm
Weight 1.073 kg

Shipped via registered Colissimo.