West Africa consider passport masks to be very sacred as a way to connect to ancestors in the spirit world.   Small enough to fit in the palm of one's hand, passport masks were never made to be worn and openly displayed. Usually kept inside a pocket or work around ones neck.   They are sacred objects thought to be carried with the persons through two realms of living and spiritual world as protective charms. The passport masks became a form of tribal identification, each culture with their own distinct styles.           Size:  H 20cm W 6cm D 6cm Because the bright paints used on traditional or artisanal terracotta are frequently water-based, natural pigments, or matte acrylics, any contact with moisture can cause the paint to smudge, flake, or bleed. ​The Best Tool: Use a clean, dry, ultra-soft makeup brush, artist's paint brush, or an anti-static microfiber cloth. ​The Technique: Gently flick dust out of the mask's carved features (like the eyes, nose grooves, or textured forehead). Avoid pressing hard, as rough friction can buff the paint and create unwanted shiny spots on a matte finish. ​What to Avoid: Never use damp cloths, wet wipes, cleaning sprays, or chemical solvents. Clay 75%