Description:

**Originally listed at 300**

West Africa, Yoruba peoples, ca. early 20th century CE. A fine example with nice aged patina of one of the most distinctive forms of West African masks. This is a helmet Gelede mask, made to be worn by men and to portray a range of male and female characters. Kaolin colors the white areas and kaolin mixed with soil gives it the dark color. The facial features are bold and large, as are the carved ears. Incised diamond shapes on the cheeks may represent tattoos or scarification. Size: 10.9" L x 8.25" W x 7.15" H (27.7 cm x 21 cm x 18.2 cm)

These masks are worn atop the head at festivals honoring the women of the community. The Yoruba peoples live in modern day Nigeria, Benin, and Togo in Yorubaland and are known for their distinctive masks.

Provenance: Ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL, acquired prior to 1970.

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#118578

  • Condition: Expected wear commensurate with age and nice dark patina. Single age crack to wood on underside.

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June 26, 2017 9:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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Bid Increments
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