When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.
Vintage Marka / Bamana Style Hand-Carved African Mask — Mali
Up for sale is a beautiful vintage West African mask crafted in the traditional style of the Marka and Bamana people of Mali. Hand-carved from a single piece of dense hardwood, the face is heavily embellished with hand-hammered, embossed brass and copper alloy cladding meticulously secured with small metal tacks.
The mask is adorned with traditional decorative elements, including hanging authentic cowrie shells strung with yellow, teal, and blue glass accent beads across the brow, alongside iconic bright red fiber tassels flanking the cheeks. The back features a deeply hollowed interior with hand-chiseled tooling marks and has the initials \"MT\" lightly inscribed on the upper interior wood surface.
Condition: Good vintage pre-owned condition with a beautiful, authentic aged patina. The wood is structurally sound, and the repoussé metalwork displays a wonderful natural oxidation and verdigris character. All shells and tassels are intact. Please inspect the high-resolution photos to observe the exact condition, texture, and craftsmanship.
Item Specifics
Culture: African (Marka / Bamana people of Mali)
Object Type: Carved Wooden Face Mask
Material: Hand-Carved Hardwood, Hammered Brass/Copper Alloy, Authentic Cowrie Shells, Colored Accent Beads, Fiber Tassels
Region of Origin: West Africa (Mali)
Handmade: Yes
