20th century, Mozambique or Tanzania, likely carved kapok wood, with applied pigment and human hair, unmarked. Comes with a custom metal and wood stand.

11 3/4 x 9 x 12 in.

From the Collection of David Graham, Linville, North Carolina

Makonde are an agrarian kin-based and matrilineal society, and their masks are an important cultural part of the "mapiko" ritual initiation dances. Eyes of the dancer look out through the mouth. Pigments used can be an indication of gender with red and yellow typically representing females, while brown and black representing males.

Some rubbing to painted surfaces.