**Originally Listed at $300**

Central Africa, Cameroon, probably Oku kingdom, Bamileke, ca. early 20th century CE. A very large and impressive carved wooden mask from the grasslands of Cameroon - a Bamileke mask presenting an exaggerated human visage with mesmerizing ovoid eyes, a full relatively naturalistic nose, open mouth, and protruding ears with perforations. The mask is adorned with braided raffia and cowrie shells at the hairline and a neckpiece comprised of woven burlap and a row of cowrie shells. In Cameroon, every village and town has its own group of so-called ‘juju dancers’. They perform during all important events and feasts, such as the enthronement of a new ‘king’ (or chief), the worshipping of ancestors, funeral rituals, etc. Dancers wear these head crest masks not on their face, but on their head. This is one such mask. An impressive example of grand size with a custom stand. Size: 17.125" L x 9.75" W (43.5 cm x 24.8 cm); 23.875" H (60.6 cm) on stand

Provenance: Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired prior to 1970.

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#121198

Age cracks and eroded surface areas commensurate with age. Missing some cowrie shells. Old losses to mouth, chin, and some other areas as shown. Raffia shows a bit of fraying. Nice remains of red pigment and areas of lustrous, dark patina.