Elephant Mask - Bamileke - Cameroon
05
days
18
hours
49
minutes
04
seconds
Starting bid
€ 1
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Selected by Dimitri André
Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
Estimate € 220 - € 250
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Masque Éléphant, an original Bamileke wooden mask from Cameroon dating to the late 20th century, measuring 76 cm high and 24 cm wide, in excellent condition and sold without a stand.
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Description from the seller
Magnificent beaded Bamileke 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, used at every stage of individuals' lives and in every chieftaincy. The Bamileke occupy the western part of Cameroon. The division into chiefdoms dates from the 14th century. Each chiefdom is led 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 beaded Bamileke 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, used at every stage of individuals' lives and in every chieftaincy. The Bamileke occupy the western part of Cameroon. The division into chiefdoms dates from the 14th century. Each chiefdom is led 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
Country of Origin
Cameroon
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Excellent condition
Title of artwork
Elephant Mask
Height
76 cm
Width
24 cm
Authenticity
Original/official
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