Large zoomorphic helmet mask with shell trim. - West Africa (No reserve price)
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Large zoomorphic helmet mask with shell inlay from West Africa, dating to the mid-20th century, made of wood with plant fibres and hair and shell embellishments, 48 cm high, 29 cm wide, 19 cm deep, weighing 1.8 kg, provenance: private collection, authenticity: reproduction.
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Description from the seller
Title:
Large zoomorphic helmet mask with shell adornment – Africa – wood, fibers, shells/Kauri – about 48 cm
Description:
Impressive, large-format mask carved from dark wood depicting an animal with an elongated snout, presumably a primate. The face is robustly modeled: closed, semicircular eyelids with a trim of fibers or hair, a prominent nasal ridge and a sawn, jagged mouth opening. The lower jaw is sewn on with fiber or leather.
Along the nasal ridge, forehead and temples the mask is adorned with small white snail-/Kauri shells. Rows of drill holes indicate that the adornment originally extended further. On the forehead, remnants of white and reddish pigment are visible. The surface shows a dark, grown patina with wear and fine cracks, appropriate to use. The interior is hollowed, with clear tool and wear marks.
Material: wood, plant fibers/leather, hair/fur, snail-/Kauri shells, pigments
Origin: West Africa
Condition:
Age-appropriate condition with signs of use. Cracking along the central axis, chipping of the surface, missing pieces in the shell adornment, lower jaw attached with older fiber binding. The cord on the back serves only for hanging and is modern. The mask has not been restored.
An expressive collectible piece for enthusiasts of African art and wall decoration. Shipping is done well packaged and insured.
Title:
Large zoomorphic helmet mask with shell adornment – Africa – wood, fibers, shells/Kauri – about 48 cm
Description:
Impressive, large-format mask carved from dark wood depicting an animal with an elongated snout, presumably a primate. The face is robustly modeled: closed, semicircular eyelids with a trim of fibers or hair, a prominent nasal ridge and a sawn, jagged mouth opening. The lower jaw is sewn on with fiber or leather.
Along the nasal ridge, forehead and temples the mask is adorned with small white snail-/Kauri shells. Rows of drill holes indicate that the adornment originally extended further. On the forehead, remnants of white and reddish pigment are visible. The surface shows a dark, grown patina with wear and fine cracks, appropriate to use. The interior is hollowed, with clear tool and wear marks.
Material: wood, plant fibers/leather, hair/fur, snail-/Kauri shells, pigments
Origin: West Africa
Condition:
Age-appropriate condition with signs of use. Cracking along the central axis, chipping of the surface, missing pieces in the shell adornment, lower jaw attached with older fiber binding. The cord on the back serves only for hanging and is modern. The mask has not been restored.
An expressive collectible piece for enthusiasts of African art and wall decoration. Shipping is done well packaged and insured.
Details
Number of objects
1
Country of Origin
West Africa
Period
Mid 20th century
Material
plant fibers, Animal hair, Shell, Wood
Sold with stand
No
Condition
Fair condition
Title of artwork
Large zoomorphic helmet mask with shell trim.
Height
48 cm
Width
29 cm
Depth
19 cm
Weight
1800 g
Provenance
Private collection
Authenticity
Reproduction/replica
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