The Nimba represents the mother of fertility, who is a protector of pregnant women and who presides over agricultural ceremonies. Nimba is the joy of living and the promise of an abundant harvest. During traditional ceremonies, Nimba is a cultural reminder of this Baga social practice. The Baga are a West African group on the coast of the Republic of Guinea known for their agricultural success, especially with rice. 

This artwork is a headdress that is worn over the shoulders of a male dancer accompanied by an enormous fibre or grass dress during ceremonies. These Nimba masks are highly prized and auctioned around the world. Their fragile nature means many break during transportation. Nevertheless, Nimba have been brought into several permanent collections, including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City and the Art Institute of Chicago. 

This gift was presented by the Republic of Guinea to the United Nations.