Mask Date Unknown

This mask, crafted by the Loma people, embodies a rich tapestry of symbols. The triangular motifs adorning the mask’s upper register evoke ancient notions of stability and connection to the earth, concepts also found in early pyramidal structures of ancient Egypt. The three prominent projections above may signify power, status, or spiritual protection. Similar symbolic projections appear on ceremonial headdresses across cultures, from the feathered crests of indigenous American tribes to the elaborate headpieces of ancient Greek deities. The mask’s austere expression invites contemplation on the cyclical nature of life and death. The emotion and psychological impact are felt as a silent echo of rituals and ceremonies of the people of Loma. Masks such as this engage viewers on a subconscious level, tapping into collective memory, demonstrating how symbols resurface, evolve, and take on new meanings across time.