Makonde Wood Mask, Tanzania, Based

Heavy eyelids, a calm forehead, and a lip plug you could set a cup on.

This mask, mounted on a base, is Makonde work from Tanzania, East Africa, carved from wood in the 20th century. The Makonde are known for helmet masks worn over the head in the mapiko dance, performed by men at initiations and other community occasions, with the mask presenting a spirit or a person to the crowd. Rounded and heavy, this one has a broad nose, closed-looking eyes and a jutting plate in the upper lip. Tufts of hair form a low ridge on top. The dark surface is flecked with pale wear. Eighteen inches high.

He looks like he has heard the speech before.