Tribal masks are among the most significant objects in many cultures around the world. These uniquely crafted pieces are usually made with a specific purpose or meaning in mind, often having deep spiritual and ceremonial significance. 

One of the most expensive masks ever sold went for over $2 million at auction, while the most expensive items ever appraised by experts in a private collection included tribal masks as well as other ancient artifacts and ritual objects.

These are the 10 most expensive masks appraised at auction or in private collections, with prices reaching millions of dollars.

The Maori Moko Mask, $2 million

Created by an unknown artist from the Maori tribe in New Zealand, this stunning mask is made of wood and features delicate facial markings that are meant to represent traditional tattoo patterns worn by men in the tribe.

Nigerian Igbo Mask, $1.6 million

This intricate tribal mask from the Igbo tribe in Nigeria is believed to be over 400 years old, and features bright colors and abstract patterns that are said to represent protective spirits.

Dogon Kpelyk Mask, $1 million

This remarkable mask from the Dogon tribe of Mali features a carved wooden face with two large horns and a colorful necklace. It is believed to be associated with fertility and death rituals, and was sold at auction for over $1 million in 2011.

Senoufo Chiwara Mask, $900,000

This wooden mask depicting the antelope-like chiwara creature is one of the most revered items in the Senoufo tribe of Mali. Carved from a single piece of wood, it is believed to be over 200 years old and was sold at auction for nearly $1 million in 2009.

Fang Mask Gbeti Yaounde, $450,000

This beautifully crafted mask features painted details and abstract patterns that have been carefully etched into the wood. It was sold at auction for over $450,000 and is believed to represent the power of the Fang people in Gabon.

Dogon Tinga Mask, $300,000

This spectacular mask from Mali’s Dogon tribe features a long snout formed from animal horns, as well as eyes made from polished stones. It was sold for over $300,000 in 2014 and is said to represent the Dogon people’s connection to the natural world and the animals that inhabit it.

Dogon Tindiga Mask, $250,000

This intricately carved mask from Mali features a long face with large ears and a protruding nose. Its age and significance are not known, but it was sold at auction for over $250,000 in 2009.

Ndebele Mask, $250,000

This striking wooden mask from the Ndebele tribe features a long face with intricate patterns carved into the wood and colorful beads attached to the forehead. It was sold at auction for over $250,000 in 2015 and is said to represent the Ndebele people’s reverence for their heritage.

Ibo Akuku Mask, $175,000

This intricately carved wooden mask from the Ibo tribe of Nigeria features a protruding snout and large eyes surrounded by colorful beaded patterns. It was sold at auction for over $175,000 in 2016.

Venda Mask, $150,000

This large wooden mask from the Venda people of South Africa features colorful geometric designs carved into its surface and is believed to represent ancestral spirits that guide the tribe. It was sold at auction for over $150,000 in 2017. 

Tribal masks are some of the most beautiful and intricately crafted works of art, often having deep spiritual or ceremonial significance to the people who created them. Whether they are from ancient cultures or more modern ones, these stunning pieces capture the spirit of their creators and offer a unique glimpse into the traditions and beliefs of indigenous peoples around the world.