West African Kpelle Ancestral Mask Art

This mask likely originates from West Africa, possibly from the Ijo people of Nigeria or a related culture. The Ijo are known for their diverse masking traditions, often incorporating animal motifs and intricate geometric designs. Masks like this one would have been used in rituals, ceremonies, or performances, embodying ancestral spirits, deities, or other important figures within the community. The zoomorphic elements and the overall design aesthetic suggest a connection to nature.