Marka Ceremonial Mask

Marka ceremonial mask. Generally characterized by elongated faces, long angular noses and metal plaque-work. Small holes on the sides are most likely for the original strap. It has a dark patina and applied metals. The Marka people are also known as the Warka who belong to the Soninke people whose settlements date back as far as 750 A.D. in Ghana. Conflicts with the Berbers compelled the Soninke to disperse into neighboring regions. The Marka people now occupy the north part of Mali. The Bambara and Bozo tribes have had a heavy influence on their social organization and practices.

Measures approximately 12" by 5".