Garth Dahl purchased his first mask in Costa Rica in 1989 as a travel souvenir. This book details his discoveries in mask buying that followed. Beautiful full colour photographs bring out the visual energy of the mask collection he assembled over 15 years, from five continents. Dahl shares his practical advice for beginning collectors.

The masks in this book originate from many cultures including those of Cuba, Costa Rica, Brazil, Europe, Asia, Africa, Mexico, the United States and Canada.

The author's interview with noted West Coast aboriginal carver Reg Davidson reveals how a mask maker expresses culture through masks, and leads to Dahl witnessing a highly significant event in the history of the Haida nation of British Columbia.