Baga Elek Head

This wood sculpture is also known as Elekel - an ancestral alter head. 

Elekel shrines were created to worship a god the Baga peoples believed created the world, Kanu, along with lineage ancestors. These sculptures were located in the family homes of villagers and served as a center for divine offerings to help protect against evil spirits and sorcery. Elek heads were used in ceremonies, community festivities, male initiations and funerals.