Ntomo mask – Wood – Bambara – Mali

Old wooden Bambana mask from Mali. This N’tomo mask is a real sculpture achievement because it is made from a single piece of wood, without assembly.
It is used during initiation rites undergone by the young boys, allowing them to reach the secret society N’ Tomo. This one is a part of six secret societies which they can enter from the age of seven years.
Good condition with a nice aged patina. Contains traces of tribal use.

Provenance: Justin Barthels (1934-2021), gallery owner Maastricht (NL). Ex owner of a Salampasu mask DR Congo Estimated 60.000 – 90.000 USD by Sotheby`s. Source: (https://www.sothebys.com/en/auctions/ecatalogue/2012/africanoceanic-n08858/lot.189.html)