Traditional Senufo Kpelie Face Mask

This striking traditional Senufo Kpelie face mask originates from Côte d’Ivoire in West Africa. Unlike the more familiar carved wooden examples, >

It has the characteristic heart-shaped face, delicate downcast eyes, narrow slit features and stylised scarification marks along the cheeks. Geometric lateral flanges represent a maternal coiffure, while two downward-reaching chin extensions symbolically ground the spirit to the earth. An animal finial crowns the mask.

Kpelie masks were traditionally used by the all-male Poro society to honour female ancestors during initiation and funeral rites.