Elephant Mask - Bamileke
06
days
01
hour
30
minutes
00
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
Reserve price not met
Expert
Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 220 - € 250
No bids placed
Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 135164 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Masque Éléphant, a Bamileke wooden elephant mask from Cameroon, 82 cm high by 36 cm wide, dating to the late 20th century and 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
Totem Galerie– African Art Gallery is a space dedicated to the discovery and celebration of both traditional and contemporary African art. The gallery brings together a refined 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 chosen 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, Totem Galerie highlights ancient works full of meaning while also creating a dialogue with the contemporary creations of today’s African artists.
More than just a gallery, Totem Galerie is a cultural bridge where art becomes a medium of transmission, emotion, and universal dialogue.
Translated by Google TranslateMagnificent 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
Totem Galerie– African Art Gallery is a space dedicated to the discovery and celebration of both traditional and contemporary African art. The gallery brings together a refined 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 chosen 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, Totem Galerie highlights ancient works full of meaning while also creating a dialogue with the contemporary creations of today’s African artists.
More than just a gallery, Totem Galerie is a cultural bridge where art becomes a medium of transmission, emotion, and universal dialogue.
Translated by Google TranslateDetails
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
Sold by
