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African Mende Helmut Mask
About the Item
Carved Helmut masks of this type were made by the Sande society of the Mende people of Sierra Leone, Africa for use in masquerades by young women in initiation rites on their passage to the adulthood. This example is carved from a single piece of wood. The carving represents stylized ideals of form and beauty. The shiny black surface represents the appreciation of smooth dark skin of the initiate. The seriousness of the expression represents the reverence for the spiritual nature of the ceremonies in which this mask was worn.
- Dimensions:Height: 14 in (35.56 cm)Width: 7 in (17.78 cm)Depth: 9 in (22.86 cm)
- Style:Tribal (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:1900s
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages. Minor fading. Some losses, cracks and wear consistent with age and ritual use.
- Seller Location:Kensington, MD
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU977618305672
About the Seller
5.0
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Established in 1962
1stDibs seller since 2013
137 sales on 1stDibs
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Ships From: Miami Beach, FL
- Return PolicyA return for this item may be initiated within 14 days of delivery.
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