Large helmet mask "tönköngba" - Guinea, Landuma
Similar Sale History
View More Items in MasksRelated Masks
More Items in Masks
View MoreRecommended Art
View MoreItem Details
Description
wood, greyish brown patina, kaolin, animal bristles, dome-shaped helmet in the centre, a long triangular snout protruding from the front, a pair of broad flat horns connected at their tips, larger areas incised with fine grooved decor, tubular eyes, drilled holes in pairs around the lower rim, slightly dam., minor missing parts, traces of insect caused damage (rim, inside), metal base;
this mask type served both as a shrine figure and as a dance headdress as well. It was used in connection with "a-tshol", a carved shrine sculpture, used by healers. The mask type, which belonged to the ancient "simo" society and was looked upon as omniscent, is clouded in secrecy. According to an eye witness it is recorded that whoever uses this mask has great power, and can go through fire. The masks are guarded in a special house near the village and should protect the whole village community. "Tönköngba" was mostly ascribed to the Landuma, but was used among the northern Baga and the neighbouring Nalu as well.
L: 104 cm, L: 40,9 inch
Provenance:
Pierre & Claude Vérité, Paris, France
Lit.: Lamp, Frederick, Art of the Baga, New York 1996, p. 138 ff
Continent: Africa
this mask type served both as a shrine figure and as a dance headdress as well. It was used in connection with "a-tshol", a carved shrine sculpture, used by healers. The mask type, which belonged to the ancient "simo" society and was looked upon as omniscent, is clouded in secrecy. According to an eye witness it is recorded that whoever uses this mask has great power, and can go through fire. The masks are guarded in a special house near the village and should protect the whole village community. "Tönköngba" was mostly ascribed to the Landuma, but was used among the northern Baga and the neighbouring Nalu as well.
L: 104 cm, L: 40,9 inch
Provenance:
Pierre & Claude Vérité, Paris, France
Lit.: Lamp, Frederick, Art of the Baga, New York 1996, p. 138 ff
Continent: Africa
Condition
See description
Buyer's Premium
- 24%
Large helmet mask "tönköngba" - Guinea, Landuma
Estimate €2,500 - €5,000
2 bidders are watching this item.
Shipping & Pickup Options
Item located in Wuerzburg, deSee Policy for Shipping
Payment
Related Searches
TOP