A MENDI CARVED WOOD CEREMONIAL HELMET MASK, SIERRA LEON, of hollow form with an elaborate combed and braided hairstyle, over a rounded forehead and deep stylized eyes above scarification cheek details and a short neck of large horizontal rolls, on a slightly flaring base with suspension holes for raffia costume. A virtually identical Mendi mask was sold Christie's Paris, Art Africain et Oceanien, Tuesday, 20 June 2006, lot 18. Height: 19 3/4" Provenance: Acquired from Ladislas Segy, Director of the Segy Gallery, New York City, N.Y., November 1951.

Overall good condition, areas of dark wood patination throughout, normal cracks from moisture loss, surface dust build up in crevices, tips of two hair finials worn, back side lower neck has an old crack and repair with three handmade metal staples, minor small chips, scratches and nicks. Simpson Galleries strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Simpson Galleries regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Simpson Galleries. All lots offered are sold "AS IS."