This is the rating and price for Mid 20Th C. African Eket Wood Mask

Description : West Africa, southern Nigeria, Eket people, ca. 1940s CE. Hand-carved from dark hard wood on the front side as is customary, this traditional Eket mask presents a characteristically circular form with bas relief triangle motifs around the perimeter to create a star-like effect. The convex visage has a bulging forehead, arched brows, deeply set, generously lidded and lowered slit eyes, a petite protruding nose, a suggested smile, and a pointed chin. The front of the mask is adorned with a thick layer of mocha-hued resin. Size: 7.25 in diameter (18.4 cm) The Eket people comprise a small tribe in southeastern Nigeria. They are neighbors to the Ibibio and Ogoni peoples. A mask like this is traditionally used during harvest festivals by members of the Ekpo secret society who dance in order to give thanks to their ancestors as well as mother earth for a plentiful harvest. In addition to honoring the earth's fertility, these dances also serve to commemorate significant, deceased warriors. Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection, acquired in 2012, ex-Andrew Berz at Berz Gallery of African Art, San Francisco, California, USA 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. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #162934
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