Elephant Mask - Bamileke

05
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20
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Current bid
€ 1
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Julien Gauthier
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier

With almost a decade of experience bridging science, museum curation, and traditional blacksmithing, Julien has developed a unique expertise in historical arms, armour, and African art.

Estimate  € 220 - € 250
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ESBidder 3903
€1

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Masque Éléphant, a Bamileke wooden mask from Cameroon dating to the late 20th century, 82 cm high by 36 cm wide, in excellent condition.

AI-assisted summary

Description from the seller

Magnificent Bamileke beaded decorative elephant mask. Among the Bamileke, the elephant is the most important animal; it embodies the king. This ethnic group has developed a unique know-how on the African continent, recognized by UNESCO: the art of using beads. This art becomes adornments, worn at every stage of the lives of individuals and of each chiefdom. The Bamileke occupy the western part of Cameroon. The division into chiefdoms dates from the 14th century. Each chiefdom is governed by a king, the fon. Secret societies play an essential role; they practice and organize ritual cults and are guardians of social order.

Seller's Story

Tribal Collection – African Art Gallery is a space dedicated to discovering and celebrating both traditional and contemporary African art. The gallery features a curated selection of sculptures, masks, ritual objects, and artworks from various African cultures and ethnic groups, reflecting the richness and diversity of artistic expression across the continent. Each piece is selected for its aesthetic quality, authenticity, and history, offering collectors, enthusiasts, and curious visitors an immersion into the symbolic and spiritual world of African art. Bridging tradition and modernity, Tribal Collection highlights ancient works full of meaning while also fostering a dialogue with the contemporary creations of today’s African artists. More than just a gallery, Tribal Collection is a cultural bridge where art becomes a medium of transmission, emotion, and universal dialogue.
Translated by Google Translate

Magnificent Bamileke beaded decorative elephant mask. Among the Bamileke, the elephant is the most important animal; it embodies the king. This ethnic group has developed a unique know-how on the African continent, recognized by UNESCO: the art of using beads. This art becomes adornments, worn at every stage of the lives of individuals and of each chiefdom. The Bamileke occupy the western part of Cameroon. The division into chiefdoms dates from the 14th century. Each chiefdom is governed by a king, the fon. Secret societies play an essential role; they practice and organize ritual cults and are guardians of social order.

Seller's Story

Tribal Collection – African Art Gallery is a space dedicated to discovering and celebrating both traditional and contemporary African art. The gallery features a curated selection of sculptures, masks, ritual objects, and artworks from various African cultures and ethnic groups, reflecting the richness and diversity of artistic expression across the continent. Each piece is selected for its aesthetic quality, authenticity, and history, offering collectors, enthusiasts, and curious visitors an immersion into the symbolic and spiritual world of African art. Bridging tradition and modernity, Tribal Collection highlights ancient works full of meaning while also fostering a dialogue with the contemporary creations of today’s African artists. More than just a gallery, Tribal Collection is a cultural bridge where art becomes a medium of transmission, emotion, and universal dialogue.
Translated by Google Translate

Details

Ethnic group/ culture
Bamileke
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
Elephant Mask
Height
82 cm
Width
36 cm
FranceVerified
1093
Objects sold
98.53%
protop

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