Lot 151A
West Africa, Guinea, Baga People, ca. early to mid-20th century. A monumental shoulder mask from Guinea, West Africa, carved from wood and embodying the ancestral female spirit known as Nimba or D'mba, a symbol of fertility, wisdom, and social harmony. This large-scale ceremonial mask features a stylized bird-like face with a pronounced beak-nose, raised and incised geometric patterns across the head, neck, and breasts - and a domed body supported by four pointed legs designed to rest on a dancer's shoulders during ritual performances. This mask represents a wise and nurturing woman, her full breasts symbolizing the mature body of a mother who has nourished and cared for children. As an embodiment of an ancestral elder and mother figure, the Nimba served as a guiding presence during key communal occasions - welcoming ceremonies, weddings, births, funerals, and seasonal rituals like planting and harvest. When worn, it was mounted atop the dancer's head and shoulders, towering above onlookers as villagers gathered in song, rhythm, and dance to honor her appearance. Size: 17" L x 13" W x 37" H (43.2 cm x 33 cm x 94 cm)
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection, acquired between 1978-1990
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#194021
- Condition: Chips and abrasions to high pointed areas, with stable crack to the verso of the head. No visible repairs. Surface is lustrous.
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| $5,000 | $9,999 | $500 |
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