This body mask, known as a njorowe, comes from the Makonde people of Tanzania. They are work by masked dance performers during initiation ceremonies along with a feminine mask to represent a young, pregnant woman. These ceremonies take place for young boys, after months of isolation where they are taught skills and traditions of manhood. The rituals prepares young men and women for their roles as future husbands and wives.

The carvings of incised designs portrays the real life scarfication and tattoo that women have near their navel, believed to protect them against evil spirits.