https://emuseum.cornell.edu/internal/media/dispatcher/73304/fullCrest mask representing a bird[]Wood with string fragmentLarge crest mask in the form of a highly stylized bird with a long beak, and the side-and tail-feathers marked on the body in heavily-incised lines. This bird mask would have been danced in a masquerade along with other animal and human masks. Together, these masks form a group controlled by either an important lineage or a regulatory society called the Kwifoyn. The group of masks was likely produced by a single artist and danced as on a single occasion, such as a funeral. The bird functions as an attendant to more prestigious masks, therefore appearing in advance of such masks as the powerful elephant mask. Rather than cover the masquerader's face, a crest mask sits on top of his head. A fitted woven raffia net, which allows the dancer to see without being seen, conceals the dancer's face. A loose fabric cloak or a vestment covered with chicken feathers completes the costume. Suggested reading: Tamara Northern, The Art of Cameroon. Washington, D.C.: Smithsonian Institution, 1984. com.gallerysystems.emuseum.core.entities.Classification@6bhttps://emuseum.cornell.edu/objects/16228/rdf