Lobi Miniature Family Mask

A cast face with extra eyes, and no obvious reason to hurry.

Lobi makers of Burkina Faso, West Africa, cast this miniature mask in bronze. Small cast-metal masks are often made in the region as personal ornaments or charms. The long face has narrow, slit eyes, a straight ridged nose and a small open mouth. Small beads of metal stud the brow and cheeks, some carved as tiny eyes, and a tiny loop projects at each ear. The surface is a dark green-grey with a smooth, worn feel.

About three inches high. Pocket-sized, with a stare to match.