Mbuti Wood Mask, Democratic Republic of Congo, Based

Square eyes, a slot for a mouth, and an expression of patient suspicion.

Mbuti people of the Ituri Forest, Democratic Republic of Congo, Central Africa, made this mask in wood with pigment in the 20th century. The Mbuti are forest-dwelling people best known for their bark cloth, and this mask is a notable departure from the usual forms of the region. The face is broad and blocky, with square eye openings, a ridged nose, small round ears and a rectangular mouth. The surface is chalky and weathered, with patches of brown.

About 15 inches tall. It watches the room and withholds comment.