Z2-M2

L 6.5″ x W 10″ x H 14″

This mask, likely originating from West Africa, serves a ceremonial purpose within tribal rituals, possibly used for ancestral worship or initiation rites. The intricate design and human-like form suggest its role in connecting the physical and spiritual worlds, embodying cultural stories and identities.

Crafted from wood, the mask features cowrie shells and animal hair, highlighting the artisans’ skill in using locally sourced materials. The use of cowrie shells indicates trade influences and their symbolic significance in wealth and spirituality. This artifact holds historical value, reflecting the artistic traditions and social structures of the region’s indigenous peoples.

This analysis was performed by AI and is not to be used as a definitive source of truth.