Dogon Maskette with Triangular Cutouts on Face, Based

Triangular eyes, a long straight nose, and a face that gives nothing away.

Dogon artisans of Mali, West Africa, cast this maskette in bronze in the 20th century. Small masks like this are commonly associated with ritual use and the miniature imitation of full-sized dance masks. The face is smooth, helmet-shaped and domed, and triangular cutouts open the eyes. A straight nose runs to a small mouth, with flat ear tabs at each side and a flared collar at the base. The surface is mottled in blue-green and olive with traces of rust.

About eight inches tall on a black mount. A composed guest.