Malian Dogon People Ritual Mask: "Gomintogo" Hare (Rabbit) Mask

This rabbit ear mask, called "gomintogo," is used by the Dogon People of Mali for funeral rituals, known as "dama." The ceremonies are conducted by initiated men who are members of the secret Awa Society. While dancing the mask, the men are celebrating the life of the deceased, while at the same time, guiding the spirit of the deceased away from the village to protect the living from harm.

The men dance the masks to tell Dogon myths. The masks have a variety of forms, each representing a separate identity in Dogon mythology. Often, the masks represent animals that are hunted by the Dogon.

The Dogon People live along the Bandiagar Escarpment of Mali.
Source:
https://metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/310377
https://www.africadirect.com/masks/dogon/dogon-dama-mask-rabbit-ears-mali-african-art.html