Very large - Old African Lipiko helmet-mask - Makonde people

Rare very large authentic Lipiko (Mapiko) helmet-mask. This type of helmet-mask was worn during Mapiko rituals by elders during the Mapiko / Ngoma initiation ceremonies of boys (and sometimes girls) into adulthood. They represent ancestral spirits, sometimes also caricatures of people with puffed cheeks and enlarged lips. The mask comes from the Border Area of southern Tanzania and northern Mozambique. It is made of very light softwood (njala), with a thick black ritual patina. Very large impressive model with a height of 38.00 cm. Some other features are: • Typical bulbous cranium, inflated cheeks, slit eyes and a rounded pipe-mouth. • Inside hollow, rotted, with original carrying cords. The piece is in good old condition with signs of use appropriate to its age and function. The helmet shows signs of age on the crown and rear, partly stabilized in the old primitive way with metal nails. Also some planing nicks. The helmet has no modern restoration. A powerful, imposing and expressive specimen with beautiful patina. View the photos to get a good impression of the mask. Photos are part of the description. This splendid, rare authentic African mask is remarkable and distinctive due to its graceful form and its imposing large size, making it a striking and decorative object. We recently acquired a beautiful authentic collection of African art. The collection includes, among other things, 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. Ships well-packaged and insured.

Estimate:$2.23

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