Baga/Nalu Helmet Mask — Guinea - African tribal art

Origin: Guinea — Baga or Nalu peoples (coastal Guinea region)
Height: 26 cm
Material: Carved wood, natural aged patina
Condition: Age-consistent surface wear; iron attachment pin visible at base (likely from mounting or repair); stable wood structure

About the mask:
A boldly abstracted helmet mask carved from a single piece of wood, built around a rounded, bulbous form. The crown is carved with dramatic radiating ridges converging to a central point, creating a striking petal- or star-like pattern across the upper surface. Below, two small round openings serve as eyes, set above a protruding, rounded muzzle-like element that projects forward. The mask's underside shows a hollowed rim designed to fit over the wearer's head, with a small iron pin visible at the base — likely part of an old mounting or stabilization repair. The wood carries a warm, weathered patina throughout, consistent with genuine age and handling.