This mask is worn by the Lukuta, the ‘spirits of the forest’, the true guardians of order and tradition among the Bassari. During secret initiations in the forest, the Lukuta confront the new young initiates. These battles are not only tests of courage and maturity, but also of loyalty.

They reveal the initiates' ability to protect the community's secrets and sacred values.  True protectors of the ecological and moral heritage, the Lukuta sometimes intervene to re-establish order, notably by punishing those who transgress the community's prohibitions.  Their appearance in human form symbolises an emergency intervention in the face of a serious threat to social cohesion or the natural balance of the community. 

Materials: This mask is made from rowan leaves, bamboo and wool, and embodies the deep bond between the Lukuta and nature. Each material symbolises an aspect of their role as protectors: raffia evokes suppleness and resistance, bamboo, solidity and uprightness, while the wool, woven with precision, represents the bonds forged between the members of the community. All the young initiates learn to make this mask. The mask was made by Balingo NDEGA.