An ancient Poro mask with Diomandé scarification marks. The long nose of this mask bears witness to a particularly ancient and beautiful style, characteristic of Kono and Guerzé forest masks, which also influenced the Toma and Tura living in the foothills of Mount Nimba. Mask societies were essential to social order, and a multitude of masks, constituting a veritable pantheon, acted as regulating agents. The mouth of this rare mask clearly expresses singing or whistling, but during its appearances an appendage adorned with feathers was attached to it, thus concealing its sculpted mouth. The notion of hidden and shown, which contributes to the Poro's mystery and strength, is very present in forest art. Guerzé or Kono, Guinea Wood, iron, nails, fabric, feathers, very fine patina from use and sacrifice. Height: 32cm Provenance: Robert Saintgery Collection, Paris Robert Saintgery Collection, Paris Passed on by descent