Goma masks are characterised by their domed heads, elongated forms, large concave eyes that are highlighted by a change of colour, protruding mouths and abstract geometric designs carved on the face and forehead.

The triangular checkerboard design in this mask is typical of their surface decoration.

The Goma people come from the north-west corner of Lake Tanganyika in the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

Goma is a city one kilometer from the Rwandan Border

Mouse over the map for a more detailed view of Goma territory.