Lot 159
Mali, Dogon culture, 20th century. The Dogon have created masks inspired by animals that play prominent roles in their mythology for centuries. To the Dogon people, the monkey signifies all that is wild, dangerous, and uncivilized, precisely the opposite qualities of any proper, upstanding Dogon person. Three types of monkey masks are created by the Dogon. Each is identified by its color rather than its form. They are the Dege or black monkey, the Ko or red monkey, and the Omono or white monkey mask. The white monkey mask is composed of a face mask with large geometric eyes and stylized features that is crowned by a full monkey figure. White monkey masks are worn during ceremonial rituals that involves a dance to the rapid dege rhythm. Dancers hop from leg to leg while crossing one leg diagonally in front of the other. The individual donning the mask stands apart from the crowd assuming a rather somber disposition, but is eventually inspired to join in the dance by singers who chant "Monkey on a high tree, all eyes are on you, the drum is beating for you, move your head, move your legs, all the people have their eyes on you." 18 1/2"T x 5 1/2"W x 4"D
Provenance: Ex-Robert Pearson Collection, Denver, CO; Ex-Eron Johnson Antiques.
All items in this auction are legal to buy/sell under U.S. statute covering cultural patrimony per United States Code 2600, CHAPTER 14 -- CONVENTION ON CULTURAL PROPERTY, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
- Condition: Wonderfully worn wood that shows its age. Intact and appears in excellent condition.
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| From: | To: | Increments: |
|---|---|---|
| $0 | $299 | $25 |
| $300 | $999 | $50 |
| $1,000 | $1,999 | $100 |
| $2,000 | $4,999 | $250 |
| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
| $10,000 | $19,999 | $1,000 |
| $20,000 | $49,999 | $2,000 |
| $50,000 | $99,999 | $5,000 |
| $100,000 | $199,999 | $10,000 |
| $200,000 + | $25,000 |