The mask is carved wood, not too heavy , but also not the very light weight wood used on more commercial examples. The Artist was commsioned to carve a mask for a Young Girls initiation. This is such a special example because we have the exact date of the ceremony and the family name carved in relief , expertly woven right into the design of the mask. " July 24, 2001 " "Solleh" are both carved onto the forehead prominently displayed for all too see. The name of " Kpalu" is carved on the back. Please note that the Mende artist are commissioned to carve the mask to resemble the girl who would wear it, so, in a way, this is also a portrait of the Young Solleh girl. Also of Note are the other emblems carved into the mask, most notably: a Diamond emblem is carved into the top of the forehead. So, perhaps we can say - with the blessing and curse of the diamond trade on Sierra Leone, this is an important and symbolic emblem to find on a young girl's mask. There are also some decorative palm trees carved onto the sides of the mask. There are also earrings attached to the ears that may have once held stones. Also of note: there are remnants of glue on the script carved into the mask, not a repair, but possibly some other "shiny" regalia was once attached to make the mask more of a spectacle when worn. This is of course only speculation. The mask Measures 14.5 x 8.5 inches, and will also include a heavy duty display stand.

Overall Good