Rare Ngolo mask partially covered with red fabric and shaped metal plates as in the classic sculptural tradition of Marka masks.
The convex forehead, narrow elongated nose, and small half-open mouth inserted within a particularly tapered jaw are all distinctive features of the Ngolo masks of the Marka; as are the copper alloy plates shaped into triangular shapes and decorated with geometrically patterned dots. The three Turu braids, of the same material and with red fabric bows, placed on the nose and temples are also distinctive features characteristic of Marka masks.
The square eyes, as well as the presence of horns, suggest to us a clear Bambara stylistic influence and in all likelihood the use of this versatile Ngolo mask also in the context of Ntomo rituals.
The red fabric, clearly of European manufacture, and the lamellae are in several places encrusted with traces of organic substances. most likely residues of sacrificial offerings.
The holes in the margin of the mask have a quadrangular cross-section, so the possibility that they were made with the help of industrial tools such as a drill can be ruled out.
Finally, it is interesting to observe the geometry of the volumes of this mask taken in profile. Excluding the horns, there remains a curve for the head, a long and a short line for the nose, and six other well-placed lines to masterfully outline the rest of the face. In summary one curve and eight lines.