The Ngbaka people, living in the center of the Democratic Republic of Congo (especially the region of Gemena), had an important rite of passage for boys. They called it gaza wuli which means “That which gives strength”. The initiate has to pass all kinds of physical tests and is eventually circumcised. During and after these ceremonies the masks, known as dagara were worn. The masks usually have an oval shape, as is the case with this object. The discussed mask is decorated with white painted dots.