490: AFRICAN CARVED MASKS AND MARIONETTES

1. A CARVED WOOD AFRICAN HELMET ATTR MENDE PEOPLES - The wooden helmet mask with figural bird surmount is attributed to the African Mende People of Sierra Leone and embodies the ideal of feminine beauty admired by the Mende with elaborate hairstyles, full forehead and small facial features. There are tribal scarification marks below the eyes and on the sides of the face. These masks are worn by women at performances that celebrate the completion of the their training period. The holes on the perimeter of the mask were threaded with twine and attached to the top of the cotton costume that she was wearing while dancing. Measures 13.5 x 8.5 inches.





2. A COLLECTION OF AFRICAN CARVED WOOD MARIONETTES - The four two-sided carvings as shown with tin applications are attributed to the African Bambara People of Mali. Sizes range from 10 x 2.5 to 14 x 2.75 inches. Very good condition, noting a break to one.

3. AN AFRICAN MASK ATTR TO THE YAKA PEOPLES OF THE CONGO - The carved and painted wood mask attributed to the African Yaka People of the Congo with braided wood circles over wrapped raffia and raffia two-tiered headdress above slotted eyes and angular open mouth having pointed top and bottom teeth painted white. the open fiber weave extends on the back of the mask. In the past, these masks were burned after the ceremony, now they are being kept and collected, and displayed after the ceremony is over. Measures 15.5 x 11.5 x 9.5 inches.
Measurements noted in description.
Very good condition as noted in the description.
$200 - $300