Ntomo Malingki Mask, Mali

Description of Significance:

The Bambara people of West Africa use N'tomo masks in their six male initiation societies, which young males must pass through before becoming a man. N'tomo Dyo is the first of these societies, and these masks serve as symbols of protection, representing the legendary ancestor of the Bambara. The masks, made of wood and sometimes adorned with shells, seeds or metal, feature a face that may be more or less abstract, always topped by a row of vertical projections. The number of spikes on the mask indicates its gender, with three, six or nine spikes representing a male mask, four and eight spikes representing a female mask, and two, five and seven spikes representing an androgynous mask. In addition to its use in the initiation societies, the masks were also utilized at agricultural festivities and believed to prevent illness. This is a contemporary decorative N'tomo mask crafted to represent historic examples.

Country of Origin:

• Hand carved in Mali

Dimensions:

• Depth: 6" 

• Width: 8" 

• Height: 25"

Sustainable Materials: 

• Natural paint and stain

• Indigenous wood

Display:

• Wall Hanging: the mask includes a wire installed on the back for easy wall hanging.

Shipping:

• Subsidized U.S. FedEx Ground shipping: $45

• Smaller pieces are shipped via FedEx Ground in a secure box, with careful packaging to ensure safe delivery. To make fine art shipping more affordable, we subsidize part of the cost.

• Each shipment includes a declared value, requiring a signature upon delivery for added security.

• International Shipping: We ship around the world! Our website cannot process automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the continental U.S.A., (including Hawaii and Alaska).

• The Myth of Free Shipping: Free shipping often means the cost is hidden in the product price, a common tactic that can mislead buyers. In fine art, transparency matters—buyers shouldn’t pay for shipping they don’t use. That’s why our pricing is straightforward, without hidden fees, ensuring fairness whether you pick up your art

About Decorative African Art:

Hemingway Gallery carefully selects pieces from artists and collectors whose work aligns with our historical and aesthetic standards. This includes newly created artworks that are actively used in ceremonies, which we deeply value despite their lack of age or antiquity. We recognize these as authentic expressions of artistic and cultural heritage, rather than mere tourist trade items.

Our collection also features works by skilled artisans who create fine art inspired by historic styles, as well as contemporary African pieces that may not fit traditional perceptions of ‘African’ art. We celebrate the evolving aesthetics of the continent, striving to showcase design that moves beyond the conventional ‘tribal’ label, reflecting the innovation and creativity of emerging artists.

Our Pricing:

Our pricing is directly aligned with the asking prices set by artists in Zimbabwe and the costs of importing their artwork to the U.S. It’s time to challenge the misconception that African artists’ work should be undervalued. Supporting our artists by ensuring they are paid fairly for their fine art is our top priority, and our pricing reflects this commitment.

Further Information:

Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information on this piece.