Mask

Mask of the Gola–Vai people of Liberia, dating to the 20th century. The mask is of the sowei helmet type and features a face with delicate facial features—eyes, nose, mouth, and ears finely defined—together with a broad, domed forehead surmounted by an elaborate five-part hairstyle. The hairline and pointed facial shape frame the face, giving it a rhomboidal outline. The neck is formed by a series of stacked rings. The surface is polished. The work is part of the Bassani Collection (inv. AFR 00018 2513A).

Photo: Paolo Vandrasch, Milano; Giuliano Spagnul, Milano; Vivi Papi, Varese.

Courtesy MUDEC.