Mask - Makondé - Tanzania

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Dimitri André
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Selected by Dimitri André

Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.

Estimate  € 1,800 - € 2,000
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Makonde helmet mask (lipiko) from the Makonde people of southeastern Tanzania, carved wood, height 26 cm, dating to 1900–1910, in good condition with a fine patina, provenance Private European collection, Dorotheum Auction Tribal Art, 21 June 2018, lot 60, with stand.

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Description from the seller

Makonde helmet mask (lipiko)
Makonde people, southeastern Tanzania / northern Mozambique

Early 20th century

Carved wood helmet mask depicting a male head with closed eyes, parted lips, and finely incised geometric scarification on the face.

The coiffure, rendered in lighter-toned wood with fine vertical texturing, contrasts with the deep brown, naturally aged patina of the face. The sculptural treatment displays the refined naturalism and psychological presence characteristic of early Makonde carving.

Such masks were worn during mapiko initiation ceremonies and ritual performances, embodying ancestral or symbolic figures.

Height: 26 cm (excluding stand)
Condition: Good; fine patina; minor wear consistent with age.

Provenance: Private European collection, Dorotheum Auction Tribal Art 21-6-2018 lot n°60 , expert Joris Visser

Makonde helmet mask (lipiko)
Makonde people, southeastern Tanzania / northern Mozambique

Early 20th century

Carved wood helmet mask depicting a male head with closed eyes, parted lips, and finely incised geometric scarification on the face.

The coiffure, rendered in lighter-toned wood with fine vertical texturing, contrasts with the deep brown, naturally aged patina of the face. The sculptural treatment displays the refined naturalism and psychological presence characteristic of early Makonde carving.

Such masks were worn during mapiko initiation ceremonies and ritual performances, embodying ancestral or symbolic figures.

Height: 26 cm (excluding stand)
Condition: Good; fine patina; minor wear consistent with age.

Provenance: Private European collection, Dorotheum Auction Tribal Art 21-6-2018 lot n°60 , expert Joris Visser

Details

Era
1900-2000
Material
Wood
Country of Origin
Tanzania
Condition
Good condition - used with small signs of aging & blemishes
Ethnic group/ culture
Makondé
Height
26 cm
Sold with stand
Yes
Estimated Period
1900-1910
BelgiumVerified
97
Objects sold
Private

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