Item specifics:
Culture: African – West Africa (Likely Ivory Coast or Nigeria influence)
Type: Small Face Mask / Passport-style Mask
Style: Expressive ceremonial style with elaborate coiffure
Material: Carved hardwood with a dark, polished patina
Dimensions: 9.5 × 5 × 3 in (24 × 12.5 × 7.5 cm)
Condition: Good vintage condition. The wood shows a rich, dark finish with visible signs of age, including a stable crack extending from the chin/mouth area (visible in photos) and minor surface wear.
Description
A striking and unique vintage African mask characterized by its intense expression and detailed carving.
Measuring 9.5 inches in height, this mask features a high, crested coiffure detailed with fine linear incisions and a headband adorned with carved diamond or cowrie shell motifs. The face is defined by slit eyes framed by dotted scarification (mimicking lashes or ritual markings) and a prominent, wide open mouth displaying a full grid of bared teeth.
Key Elements:
Elaborate Coiffure: The high, ridged hairstyle suggests status or beauty, borrowing stylistic elements from the Baule or Guro traditions of the Ivory Coast.
Bared Teeth: The open mouth with a "grid" of teeth is a powerful motif, often symbolizing aggressive spirits, the strength of the ancestors, or specific masquerade characters designed to command respect.
Surface Detail: The mask features "dotted" punch-work around the eyes and forehead band, adding texture to the smooth, dark wood.
Compact Size: At under 10 inches, this piece fits the scale of a "passport mask" (miniature masks carried for personal protection) or a small shrine piece.
This is a visually captivating piece of woodcarving that blends serenity (in the eyes) with aggression (in the mouth), creating a dynamic wall display.
Compliance Note: This item is sold as a vintage ethnographic art object / collectible artifact.
Important note: The display stand shown in the photos is for illustration only and is NOT included in the sale.
