Dogon mask -Samana-Mali

This Dogon mask with a thick encrusted layer of mud mixed with other things is identified as representing a Samo, a member of a neighboring ethnic group with a reputation for aggressive, warlike behavior.

Dogon artists depict many human characters in their masks, and foreigners and marabouts. Most of these characters are with only a few human characters are portrayed in wood. While all of these human masks are somewhat similar in form, wooden Samara warrior masks are usually frightening . .

This finely carved mask has been in my collection the last 20 years.

The crust looks to be made of cotton fibers mixed with chicken blood, earth, etc..

Read also :

The various types of Dogon masks