Large carved wooden crest mask from Mali, Africa known as "Kanaga" tall-structure with two seated figure's at top, two sets of arm's with hands and face mask at bottom. the mask deeply carved to a dramatic point, the sagittate nose forming a medial ridge, framed by deeply set rectangular eyes beneath a geometric superstructure composed of two opposing planks; aged surface Dogon dancers perform with kanaga masks at dama ceremonies honoring the dead. Rotating their upper bodies from the hips and swinging the masks in wide circles, the dancers imitate Amma, the creator god, who brought all things to life. Their outstretched movements symbolically spread the force of life throughout the world. This is a Old and genuine field used example. No African mask collection is complete without a Kanaga mask, and this is a wonderful old example. Early to Mid 20th. C. Condition good, leather straps that hold arm frame to body need replaced. H. 40'' W. 20''. 8 lb shipping weight. ''Provenance Anne Narosny African Art Collection Estate'' Sale # 1 of 3''