Description:

West Africa, Burkina Faso, Mande people, Bobo/Bwa or Marka-Dafing culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A striking wooden mask characterized by tall, curved horns reminiscent of antelope, a ridge-like nose crest, and a projecting squared snout with a row of angular teeth. Its bold graphic presence is heightened by painted geometric motifs in vivid red ochre, white kaolin, and black charcoal across the surface - incised chevrons, triangles, and linear bands. A twisted cord of vegetal fiber runs through suspension holes around the periphery. Originating from a culture where such masks represent the bush spirits - manifestations of animals like antelope and cattle - this piece embodies the protective forces that ward off illness, misfortune, and malevolent spiritual interference, particularly threats associated with witchcraft. Both a sculptural marvel and a conduit of ancestral power. Size: 22.5" L x 10" W (57.2 cm x 25.4 cm)

Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA; ex-Ralph T. Coe personal collection.

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

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#196381

  • Condition: Minor chips and abrasions to wood, and some losses to pigment layers with some staining and discoloration. Overall great condition.

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Shipping

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August 22, 2025 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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