Helmet Mask
Tsogho · Gabon
Reference: MCYC-48
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- Height
- 47 cm
- Material
- Wood, raffia, skin, cauris, beads, feathers and pigments.
Mask helmet intended to participate in ceremonies held in honor of the deceased. The wooden character standing on the raffia helmet represents an ancestor. Oval head,…
Enquire about this objectFull original description
Mask helmet intended to participate in ceremonies held in honor of the deceased. The wooden character standing on the raffia helmet represents an ancestor. Oval head, the profile of the face with the eyebrows forms a perfect heart, much used in this part of Africa. The face presents remains of kaolin, since undoubtedly its face was painted white, color of the spirits. Over the head a plume of black feathers. Ripped eyes and the mouth in the form of a triangle, common between the Vuvi. Hands come straight, right angle, out of the arms. He has no forearms. His chest has a large limb and half of it, the meaning of which we do not know. The rafia hat is decorated with white cauris and beads, in the form of headbands and pendants, by means of thin strips of skin. Braided wicker base with a coating. It has the appearance of having received libations. Very dark patina.
Further technical information
- Attributed period
- Mid-century XX or earlier.
Details transcribed from the original catalogue; they are not a recent physical inspection.
Country on the map
Gabon. The country associated with the catalog is shown, not the current location of the piece.
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Attributions, dates and accounts come from the preserved catalogue. They do not constitute certification of authenticity or provenance. An object’s presence on this website does not mean it is available for sale.
