This mask was carved in the style of the Makonde people of Tanzania. The Makonde of Tanzania and Mozambique is one of the most prolific art-producing peoples in eastern Africa.  One of the most prominent of these arts are the life-size helmet masks called Lipico, which are worn on the top of the head partially covering the face and slightly tipped upward so that the dancer can see. Masks play a prominent role in Makonde's life, serving to mark the end of the initiation and circumcision cycle for boys as they move into manhood.  The Lipico masks show a wide range of Makonde life and society as they depict initiates, villagers, coastal Arabs, and colonial officials. The dimensions are 16 inches high,8 inches wide, and 6 inches thick. Pictures are an exact representation of the item.