Want more images or videos?
Request additional images or videos from the seller
1 of 5
Liberia Bassa Mask
About the Item
Covered with an extraordinary black crusted patina, this wooden Liberian mask was hand-crafted in the style of the Bassa ethnic group. Bassa communities have a number of rich masking traditions. Among these are Chu-Den-Zo and No, both of which utilize a type of mask known as gela. This mask is used in No dances held during celebratory events. In No performances, the gela emphasizes the feminine and graceful movements of the dancer, used to illustrate desirable qualities women are expected to possess. The gela is typically attached to a woven framework that projects outward from the forehead of the performer, and draped fabric hangs from the perimeter of the mask to conceal their head and shoulders.
The artistic influence of the neighboring Dan people is clearly seen in this fine gela, with its tapered face, slit eyes, and deep concavity. An intricate coiffure is carved on the crest of the mask, showcasing the stunning craftsmanship of the Bassa people. This same attention to detail can be seen along the bridge of the nose which is adorned with a stylistic etching. A beautifully aged patina lends further textural richness to this wonderful example of Bassa carving.
- Dimensions:Height: 11 in (27.94 cm)Width: 7 in (17.78 cm)Depth: 4.75 in (12.07 cm)
- Style:Folk Art (In the Style Of)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:20th Century
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:Chicago, IL
- Reference Number:
About the Seller
4.9
PAGODA RED is a renowned resource for designers as well as collectors of contemporary and ancient Chinese, Korean and Japanese art. They offer a curated edit of fine and provincial furniture, ceramics, scholars' objects, and paintings and textiles, each piece historically and geographically authentic.
Diamond Seller
These expertly vetted sellers are 1stDibs' most experienced sellers and are rated highest by our customers.
Established in 1997
1stDibs seller since 2006
1,419 sales on 1stDibs
Typical response time: 1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Chicago, IL
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 2 days of delivery.
More From This SellerView All
- Salampasu MaskLocated in Chicago, ILThis ceremonial African mask is linked to the Salampasu people of the Bantu ethnic group located primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Salampasu masks...Category
Mid-20th Century Congolese Folk Art Masks
MaterialsWood, Bamboo
- Salampasu Warrior MaskLocated in Chicago, ILDivided into contrasting tones, this ceremonial African mask is linked to the Salampasu people of the Bantu ethnic group located primarily in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Salampasu masks...Category
Mid-20th Century Congolese Folk Art Masks
MaterialsWood, Paint
- Painted Guatemalan Patrón Face MaskLocated in Chicago, ILThis colorfully painted and expertly carved mask was once used in one of the oldest Guatemalan dance performances, the Baile del Patzcar. Still practiced today, this dance evolved fr...Category
20th Century Guatemalan Folk Art Masks
MaterialsWood, Paint
- Pende-Style Antelope MaskLocated in Chicago, ILMasks from the Pende people of the Democratic Republic of the Congo are considered some of the most dramatic works of African art. The Pende have defined an extensive range of mask forms, many with distinct characters embodied during ritual ceremony. Colored by red and white pigments, this Pende mask...Category
Mid-20th Century Congolese Tribal Masks
MaterialsWood
- Yoruba Egungun Headdress MaskBy Yoruba PeopleLocated in Chicago, ILAttributed to the Yoruba people of western Nigeria, this wooden headdress was worn during a masquerade known as egungun. A widespread Yoruba ritual, egungun performances honor a comm...Category
Early 20th Century Nigerian Tribal Masks
MaterialsWood
- Mende Women's Helmet MaskLocated in Chicago, ILThis helmet mask created by the Mende people of Sierra Leone was made for the women of their tribe to wear while dancing. Commissioned by women for their ...Category
Mid-20th Century Sierra Leonean Tribal Masks
MaterialsWood
You May Also Like
- Expressive Early Classic Cubist Dan Mask Early 20th Century Liberia, AfricaLocated in Point Richmond, CAExpressive early classic cubist Dan mask with refined expressive look, narrow open eyes and mouth and fine line scarification marks around outside of face. Created early 20th century by the Dan People...Category
Early 20th Century Liberian Tribal Masks
MaterialsWood
- Antique Mexican Demon MaskLocated in Mexico City, CDMXWe offer this rare antique Mexican Demon mask in wood, circa 1970. The mask makes a sound when moved.Category
Vintage 1970s Mexican Folk Art Masks
MaterialsWood
- Antique Mexican Diablo MaskLocated in Mexico City, CDMXWe offer this rare and very antique Mexican Diablo mask in wood, circa 1940. Great patina.Category
Vintage 1940s Mexican Folk Art Masks
MaterialsWood
- MasksBy (after) Pablo PicassoLocated in Atlanta, GASelection of Pacific Northwest Native style masks, hand carved and painted by sculptor, circa 1990s. They measure: Top row, left to right: 9"H...Category
1990s Canadian Tribal Masks
MaterialsWood
- 1970's Nicaraguan Mask Folk ArtLocated in Vancouver, BCA traditional Indian dance mask from the town of Monimbo, adopted by the rebels during the fight against Somoza. These were worn in order to conceal one's identity. It is a very un...Category
Vintage 1970s Nicaraguan Folk Art Masks
MaterialsMetal, Wire
- 1950s Catrin "Dandy" Mask, Tlaxcala, MexicoLocated in Point Richmond, CACatrin (Dandy) mask Nahua people, Tlaxcala, Mexico Wood, gesso, paint 1950s-1960s Measures: 7? (17.8 cm) high, 6.5? (16.5 cm) wide, 5? (12.7 cm) deep This mask is called the C...Category
Vintage 1950s Mexican Folk Art Masks
MaterialsWood, Paint
