Originally offered at $1,800...

Africa, Mali, Bamana Kono Peoples, ca. 1940. A stunning early (by African standards) wooden mask of an abstract antelope form. This type, of which there are several varieties, presents with an exaggerated open mouth of simple geometric form, two thin alert ears, a simple rounded head lacking eyes or nostrils, and a petite, rounded attachment form with four hand-drilled suspension holes along with two holes at ears. Size: 28" L x 3.5" W x 5" H (71.1 cm x 8.9 cm x 12.7 cm)

Antelope imagery in Bamana lore is associated with the introduction of agriculture, the male form, and the sun that gives life. Perhaps the most famous style of Bamana art, the Ci Wara mask, depicts a divine being that is half human and half antelope. This being taught humanity how to cultivate the land and was honored by the Bamana ever after. The animal depicted here is likely the roan antelope, who inhabits the savanna and is found throughout much of Africa.

Provenance: private Houston, Texas, USA collection; ex-private French collection; ex-private dealer Christophe Rolley, Paris, France

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#162910

Very minor chips and nicks, otherwise intact and excellent with nice deep patina.