Grey mask with bird, man

The masks are one of the elements in African art and culture that most influenced Western culture. They vary greatly from one culture to another, though almost all have spiritual traits. Whether representing an animal, an ancestor or a feminine figure, the maker of the mask has a special consideration within the tribe, considered to be in direct contact with the spiritual world. In African culture there is a difference between the outer look and the essence, and it is precisely this essence that is captured by the mask maker. Not everyone can wear a mask, only the chosen ones because of the strength it requires. This mask carries a bird on the top. Birds are mysterious creatures in African culture, many times symbolizing fertility.
Given these items are hand carved by an artisan, the dimensions are approximate, they may vary from one to another.