Hello Valerie,

Thank you for choosing Mearto for your online appraisal.

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

A Mali Tribal Ceremonial Mask, 20th century. Mali, located in West Africa, is known for its rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions, including the creation of ceremonial masks. Mali African ceremonial masks are an integral part of the region's cultural and religious practices. These masks are crafted by skilled artisans and used in various ceremonies, rituals, and cultural events.

The ritual purpose of surukuw, or hyena masks, which were worn in kore, a Bamana male initiation ceremony. The present mask is of impressive volume, with a large mouth gaping open in menacing laughter. Surukuw masks are distinguished by the pronounced protrusion of the rounded forehead and cranial ridge on the top of the head.