Garments and headdresses adorned with feathers from the great blue touraco (Corythaeola cristata) are traditional among the Toma/Loma people in Guinea and Liberia.

The ensemble evokes a mythical bird that brought power to the Toma society. It is worn by a Wenilegei or “bird man” who dances during initiations of all young males into manhood and during the funeral ceremonies of the powerful leaders of the Poro secret society. The dancer’s face and body are covered with kaolin (white clay), and he wears anklets which are decorated with metal bells and carries a staff.