Description:

West Africa, Nigeria, Ogoni peoples, ca. first half of the 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden mask with an articulated jaw held in place with knotted fibers. The ovoid mask bears almond-shaped eyes with openwork slits, a narrow nose, cupped ears that protrude from the temples, and an incised coiffure with triangular bangs draped atop the brow. The mask is covered with dark brown pigment, and traces of red, yellow, and white pigment imbue it with a wonderful presentation. The Ogoni people, living in the fertile land east of the Niger River Delta, have a long history of masquerading despite the efforts of Christian missionaries to halt the activity. Masks are used in a wide variety of situations including entertainment, participation in rituals, and attending social events such as funerals. Size: 5.9" W x 8.2" H (15 cm x 20.8 cm); 11.4" H (29 cm) on included custom stand.

Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Allan Stone collection, New York, New York, USA

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#154496

  • Condition: Minor nicks and abrasions to jaw, face, ears, coiffure, peripheries, and verso, light fading and chipping to original pigmentation, and light encrustations, otherwise intact and very good. Light earthen deposits and remains of original pigment throughout.

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April 23, 2020 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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