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ANTIQUE CHOKWE African Tribal HAND CARVED Ceremonial Wood Mask Congo OLD/LARGE
Size approx. 12\" long x 7.5\" wide x 3.75\" deep
A genuine antique. The hand carving and detailing on this mask is superb: Wonderful carved patterning known as scarification marks are down chin, along sides of eyes, and on top of head for a 3D effect. Eyes are the slit bean shaped style so typical of Chokwe masks. Hole in left nostril with iron ring through. Small pieced hole in left earlobe.Braided sisal fiber rope nailed across forehead and extending out about 2\" each side.
This mask is not a lesser, highly polished tourist piece easily available and obtained- it\'s quite special & unique. There is a real humanity and charming spirit to the facial features.
The inner surface of this mask is, although carved, extremely smooth and with a darkened patina due to wear and usage over many generations of ceremonial use.
About Chokwe masks [generally crafted in the Congo area of Africa]:The Chokwe mask is sacred worn by men & women during dance festivals primarily for entertainment. The wooden masks are said to bestowincreased fertility on the spectators when worn by a male. The masks as worn by females represent female ancestorsdepicted as beautiful young women, with high foreheads, balanced features, and scarification. The scarification marks, which may duplicatethose of the actual woman whose beauty inspired the carver.
Round hole on each side of mask with a clear cord threaded through the back for display- ready to hang
See all pics & use zoom. Magnificent, art gallery quality. Highly collectible and unique.
Excellent condition, no flaws damage cracks or repair to mask other than light/normal wear for age and use- this piece was worn as a ceremonial piece [smooth surface of wood inside] and has some flaking of the surface vegetable fibers that coat the mask.
Flaking is stable and patinated surface finish greatly adds to the visual appeal and authenticity of the piece
A beautiful piece of Art -stunning for a collector.
Lightweight wood may be balsa wood
Please see my other listings in my store under African Carvings for more African collectibles.
Ships fully insured & w tracking provided
As always, my items are packed with EXTRA bubble wrap and extreme care to insure a safearrival.
Please check my other listings for more FABULOUS VINTAGE collectibles, glass, china, tea sets and cups, and unique treasures. I add several new listings per week.
Please note the following, dear fellow shopping enthusiasts:
I strive to give you the best service possible. I am not a dealer or professional, just a lifelong collector and enthusiast. I only list items that I think are unique and of good quality. I represent my items as accurately and clearly as I can, and believe it is always better for you to have too much information than not enough! Please ask any questions before offerding, I will happily respond.
Remember, these are vintage items and will have reasonable signs of age and wear which only adds to their personality, appeal and \"funky vintage-ness\". They are not in their original boxes unless noted. I do not excessively clean items or remove age patina, as I want to leave that option for the buyer.
I will promptly ship your item within1 business day and post great positive response for you once payment is received.
Go Green! I try to re-use clean, almost-new shipping boxes when possible.
I will gladly combine shipping on multiple items for you.
Thank you for looking
