Senufo Poro Society Kpeliye "beautiful Lady" Mask, Based

A rider on top, sunbursts at the cheeks, and a face that has seen everything.

Senufo carvers of the Ivory Coast, West Africa, made this Poro society kpeliye mask, called a beautiful lady, in wood in the 20th century. Kpeliye or face masks are commonly associated with the Poro society and with funerals and initiations. A long, narrow face has closed eyes and a straight nose with a small mouth, framed by radiating spikes. A small seated figure sits on a crest above the brow, and two small legs project at the chin. The surface is glossy, dark brown, with a few pale scratches.

About 19 inches tall on a black stand. Serene, severe, and extremely well-composed.