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Overview
A large vintage African wall mask, hand carved from a dense reddish-brown hardwood. A carved bird stands at the top of the crest, above a triangular panel covered in small textured cuts. The two raised flanks of the headdress have bands of black-stained wood alternating with the natural wood. The long face has a carved arched brow band, heavy-lidded slit eyes, a long straight nose and an open mouth, framed by a textured beard border with radiating lines. Bovine bone inlays set with small pins form a diamond on the forehead and a triangle on each cheek. At 28 inches tall, it makes a strong focal piece for an entryway, hallway, office or living room wall.
Background
Masks crowned with a carved bird are a long-standing theme in African wood carving, and many were also made as wall pieces like this one. This mask is unmarked and unsigned and came from an estate sale. It is carved from a single piece of wood and hollowed out at the back, where the gouge marks are still visible, with the eyes and mouth cut through. A leather hanging strap is nailed to the upper back.
Condition
Good vintage condition. The polished finish shows light wear consistent with age, including rough spots and edge wear on the tips of the headdress and splintered edges around the eye openings on the back. The bone inlays are all in place, and no cracks or repairs are visible. Please see all photos.
Dimensions & Weight
The mask measures 28 x 6 x 3 inches (H x W x D) and weighs 4 lb 2.2 oz.
Shipping
Free standard shipping within the US, packed securely.
