Rare Bamileke Kuosi helmet mask with buffalo horns and kauris

Rare Bamileke Kuosi Helmet Mask with Buffalo Horns and Kauri Shells. Large expressive and powerful helmet mask from the Bamileke people in the Grassfields region of Cameroon. This type of mask belongs to the Kuosi society, the prestigious association of warriors and notables. The imposing pair of buffalo horns symbolizes power and strength. The human face, framed by two hands adorned with kauri shells (symbol of wealth and fertility), has a very intense and meditative expression. The mask is hand-carved from a single block of hard wood and features a beautiful, thick, dark-brown ritual patina earned through years of use with soot and palm oil. Clear signs of use, small cracks, and wear on the kauri shells attest to ceremonial dancing. Details: • Origin: Bamileke, West-Cameroon. • Material: Wood, kauri shells. • Period: Estimated 1940 - 1950 Is a large piece with a height of: 40.00 cm and the width is 20.00 cm. The mask is in good and complete condition with authentic age-related and wear from use. Hanging eyelet inside present. A beautiful, sculptural collectable with a lot of presence. Ideal for the lover of authentic African tribal art. This beautiful, rare handmade African mask is a striking and particularly decorative object due to its graceful form, the detailed workmanship, and the lovely shells in the hands. We have recently acquired a lovely authentic collection of African art. The collection includes, among others, statues, masks, weapons and utilitarian objects. All items are original and authentic, so keep an eye on my listings. All objects are auctioned without a minimum price. Shipped well-packaged and insured.

Estimate:$6.69

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