Bambara Kore Mask

This is a ceremonial mask as used by the Bambara tribe of Mali. It is used in the male initiation rituals of the Kore society and represents a hyena as a spirit animal. This is a fairly nice example measuring about 2' by 8" and probably dates to the mid-20th century. I purchased it from the collection of an African friend, though it may be a tourist piece rather than an actual ritual item... still very decorative and evocative.