Gongoli Mask

A large gongoli, or kongoli, mask, depicting the face of a human or animal. The mask has a typical protruding forehead, and a broad nose; its eyes are marked by a series of vertical slits. This example also has holes for raffia pierced around the rim. The gongoli masquerader comes out to provide light entertainment, particularly during more solemn occasions such as funerals. It is not particular to any cultural groups in Sierra Leone.