Variously attributed to the culturally related Bamana, Marka, or Sorogo peoples, this small mask with its striking indigo-blue color and decorative copper strips shows signs of intense usage. It depicts a beautiful and alluring Fulani maiden named Meren, a popular character in entertainment performances sponsored by youth associations among the Bamana and their related neighbors. The Fulani are a large group of Islamic nomadic merchants and pastoralists that ranges widely over West Africa.