This very charming mask is geometric in style, with triangular cheeks meeting at a sharp point, short vertical sides above the ears and a curved forehead. Oval-shaped eyes are encircled by a striated band, having the effect of woven cloth. On the forehead, interconnecting loops weave around holes holding rings, with larger ones at the two ends. The nose is conical bearing double bands at the tip in a horseshow shape. An open mouth fits perfectly at the tip of the sharp chin, with curled expressive lips. The Bambara (also known as Bamana) use masks as an important part of ceremonies for the six associations supervising different aspects of society including initiation and ancestral worship. This mask may have been worn as an ornament, on the hip, around the neck, or over the face, by an important society member.