Dogon Dege or Black Monkey Mask, On custom base

He looks surprised, and the long black outline of his face does nothing to help.

This dege, or black monkey mask, is Dogon, from Mali in West Africa. It is 20th century carved and painted wood, on a custom base. Dogon masks were made for dancers, who perform at funeral rites meant to help the dead on their way, and monkeys are among the many animals that appear. A rounded head with two circular ears sits atop a long oval body. A black band outlines a tapering opening, split by a thin central bar. The surface is a chalky, mottled tan. Nearly 25 inches high and 7 wide.

Keep him where he can see the door.