Ceremonial or Ancestral Spirit Mask – Africa

This graphically striking mask is said to have originated in Cameroon. Similar masks, however, are also known to have been in use in neighbouring Gabon. Although, the tribe that made the mask is not known, it should be kept in mind that tribes do not necessarily conform to state borders.
The mask does not have any holes providing for it to be worn as a face mask. This, apart from the white face, gives further reason to assume that is a ceremonial or ancestral mask that was used lying on it s back.
The concave reverse of the mask clearly shows that it is carved out of one piece of wood. Regrettably, the tip of the nose is missing. – Below mask in profile