Iron "Marka" Mask, Burkina Faso

Two horns, a narrow nose, and one iron strip that means business.

Marka makers of Burkina Faso, West Africa, made this mask in wood and iron in the early 20th century. Masks across the region are commonly worn in community ceremony, and many have long faces and upright horns. The face here is a long, tapering oval with two tall horns at the brow. A nose ridge studded with small metal tacks runs down the center, and a pierced chin ends in a small notch. Fiber cord hangs from one edge. The wood is dark brown and richly worn.

About 14 inches tall. Sleek and a little severe. It will hold a wall like a sentry.