This small oval bronze mask was found along the Niger River. Stylistically, the mask is characteristic of both Djenne and later Dogon examples. However, the features of the mask do not specifically indicate a single known influence. Instead, it represents the ambiguous link between different cultures and styles. Thus, this mask is the product of multiple artistic influences that would have easily traveled from tribe to tribe located along the banks of the Niger.
As a work of art, this mask is a triumph. The heavily encrusted surface, with its thick layers of green and gray patina, attests to the masks age and produces a pleasing texture slowly accumulated over the ages. The modeling of the face is simply delightful. The small features when contrasted to the chubby roundness of the face make this image appear to represent an infant. The little semi-circular ears, the nose, and slightly pursed lips all project slightly from the contours of the mask. The eyes are two small pierced holes echoed by subtle almond-shaped elaborations rendered in low relief around the eyes, no doubt symbolizing the brows. Also sculpted in low relief is a headdress that wraps around the forehead. Clearly this mask is much too small to be worn by an adult in a ceremony or ritual. Perhaps it was worn by children or even had a greater symbolic purpose now lost to us. Although the true significance is incomprehensible to us today, we can easily appreciate this fine bronze mask for its abundant historic, cultural, and artistic values.