Very Rare, Large And Old Bamileke Mask. The Bamileke people of Cameroon. The Bamileke are a group of around ninety closely related peoples who inhabit the Western High Plateau of Cameroon. Most Bamileke masks are usually worn during important societal ceremonies such as the funeral of important dignitaries or annual festivities. Stunning, authentic and finely-crafted Bamikele that displays a very rare form we understand was a unique and sole commission for the funeral ceremony of an elderly dignitary. Large and heavy example made from dense wood in two sections. Lower half of the mask features an expressive open-mouthed face, with a stylized chin beard, stained pale white with ochre. Contrast areas of dark brown dye stain for eyes, mouth, ears and other facial features. Upper part of mask feature two seated figures, stained dark brown, facing opposite directions and smoking tobacco with pipes. Perhaps an indication of the personal habit affiliated to the person the mask was commissioned to honour. Patina is attractive with a complementary mix of dyes, stains and ageing of wood. Good use of Ochre to produce areas of pale contrasts. Superb and highly recommended example. With commendable form, balance and symmetry. Some wood degradation, small chips, general wear and visible breakage to right side of face I have tried to capture in pictures. Yet mask remains in good and solid collector condition overall for a used artefact. An exceptional, unique and very rare example. 60cm high x 23cm wide x 22cm deep. We are a UK-based business but we source and field-collect authentic tribal treasures in person on the ground in Africa as we rate authenticity above every other consideration in regards to the items ot African art we offer. We therefore sometimes send big and heavy items directly from our storage facility in West Africa to avoid duplication of effort and expenses.
