Lega Ceramic Passport Mask, Based

Broad, mild face whose round eyes seem to be mid thought.

This wood and kaolin passport mask is Lega, from Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, and dates to the 20th century. Kaolin is a white clay used in many parts of Africa for ritual and body decoration, and it is often applied to masks to give a pale surface. Captured here is a wide oval with a gently raised nose, large circular eye holes and a small round mouth near the base. Light pale wash lingers around the eyes and nose against a warm brown surface. Dark pegs dot the outer edge, and a black stand holds it. It is 3.75 inches wide, 1.25 deep and 8.75 high.

Wide set and slightly bemused, like the best sort of guest.