Dear Judith,

Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.

Based on the images and information you provided, this item is:

A Baule Mask. Baule masks are a type of African mask originating from the Baule people, an ethnic group living in the Ivory Coast (Côte d'Ivoire) in West Africa. These masks are highly regarded for their artistic craftsmanship, spiritual significance, and cultural importance.

The Baule people are part of the Akan ethnic group and are known for their rich cultural heritage. They inhabit the central region of the Ivory Coast and have a history of skilled craftsmanship in various art forms, including sculpture, textiles, and jewelry.

Baule masks are traditionally carved from wood, with different types of wood used depending on availability and the intended purpose of the mask. The carvers, who are often skilled artisans within the community, pay great attention to the choice of wood and its natural characteristics.