Hello, this item is a carved African wooden mask featuring a strong central ridge, elongated nose, heavy lidded eyes, and alternating dark and light painted bands across the face. The formal symmetry, bold graphic striping, and restrained facial expression are characteristic of Central African mask traditions, most closely aligned with Kuba or related groups from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Masks of this type were traditionally used in ceremonial or performative contexts and later widely collected during the mid 20th century. The scale, at approximately 18 by 12 by 7 inches, and the construction, carved from a single block of wood with applied pigment, are consistent with authentic regional production rather than small scale tourist souvenirs.

The mask appears to be in good overall condition, with visible surface wear, minor abrasions, and pigment loss consistent with age and handling, but no major cracks, breaks, or structural instability visible in the provided images. The interior shows expected wear and patination from use or age. In the current market, African masks of this type without documented field provenance or specific named carver attribution are valued based on quality, condition, and visual strength. Comparable Central African masks generally trade in the $800 to $1,800 USD range.