Description : Nigeria, Ogoni, ca. early 20th century CE. This is a handcarved wooden mask whose immediately noticeable feature is its wide, toothy smile. Small, close-set eyes, a large nose, and raised eyebrows complete the face, which appears to be joyous. Atop its head is a fairly elaborate hairstyle that may be recalling a woman on her wedding day. The Ogoni people, living in the fertile land east of the Niger River Delta, have a long history of masquerading, despite the efforts of Christian missionaries to stop this activity. Masks are used in a wide variety of situations -- entertainment, participation in rituals, and attending social events like funerals. Size: 5.55 W x 9.15 H (14.1 cm x 23.2 cm)
Provenance: Ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL, acquired prior to 1970.
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#113556
Price: 129.50 USDIt's free to register now to view!
Estimate (low-high) : 400 USD-600 USDIt's free to register now to view!
About the lot N° 99 Title : 20Th C. African Ogoni Wood Mask - Big Smile Condition report : Expected wear, with an unrepaired crack to the chin. Artemis Gallery, auctioneer, Louisville, USIt's free to register now to view! Sale title : End of Year Clearance Online Timed Auction Sale date : 25 Dec 2016It's free to register now to view! Sale Reference : Live Sale