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Lovely OLD BASSA Antique African MASK Liberia w/ Stand
An Exquisite OLD Bassa Geh-naw Forehead Mask, Elaborate Coiffure Antique African Art - Tribal Masque - Liberia
Collected from the: Bassa peoples of Liberia, West Africa Material: Carved wood, pigment, skin oil, custom metal stand Period: Very early 20th century Dimensions: 10" height, 7" width, 4.5" depth, 10 ounces or 11.75" height, 1.05 pounds with stand Condition: Excellent. From a private Seattle collection, exquisite signs of age, wear, frequent handling and ritual rubbing of extensive tribal use; tool marks and surface condition are appropriate for the early period. Minor nicks at outer rim edge test stable, exposed wood presents significant patination. Make special note of the extensive wear at the rectangular pierced holes and the beautifully burnished skin oil patina along high points of nose, cheeks, center and sides of interior and all rim edges, all indicative of the earlier production period. Age, handling, wear and ritual "body rub" oiling culminated in a glorious patina that accentuates the serenity of this gorgeous carving. Surface and recesses display the anticipated accumulated residue of daily life - a particularly fine example of Bassa art !
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Bassa Mask Traditions and Use: Mario Meneghini notes that Bassa masks were practically unknown until 1969, referencing the departures from similar Dan-Mano-Krahn styles and apparently blind eye sockets that so held his attention. He explains that Bassa masks were created to perch high above the forehead and therefore had no need for the eyes to ?see?. Bassa masks are carved in lightweight wood and pierced around the rim for the attachment of vegetable fibers and strips of animal pelts that must conceal the dancer?s face. A raffia costume completely covers the body, further hidden beneath an ample, cone-shaped cape ? rendering the human form undetectable so that the dancing mask becomes one with the spirit it represents; the dancer?s quick and fluid movements make the mask(s) appear to float. Concave profiles are typical of Bassa masks, with some noted examples shaped quite like a half-moon. Their coiffures display surprising characteristics, unlike those found in any other Liberian mask, with raised scarifications patterned after elderly clan members? tattoos of old and finely carved ears which delicately follow the contours of the coiffure, chins curve upwards, given the concave form, with straight noses and protruding lips. Tribal beliefs prevent the features of a Bassa mask from bearing even the slightest resemblance to those of a known living person, thus preserving the myth of the mask and protecting it from the weaknesses of mankind. The Geh-naw masqueraders entertain spectators during ceremonies related to visits of foreign dignitaries and at the end male initiation rites when freshly initiated boys return from the bush camp.
Bassa Tribal History The Bassa, one of the largest Kru-speaking peoples, inhabit the central coastal region and adjacent hinterland of present-day Liberia in agriculturally dependant small villages whose economy is based on their rice cultivation. Bassa art displays a strong influence from their Mande-speaking neighbors, especially the Dan and Kpelle. Like these groups, the Bassa have several female and male societies, including the Chu-den-zo, to whom the Geh-naw masks belong. Bassa carvers are most recognized for their Gela masks of the men?s No society. Though stories exist of Norman explorers who purportedly established two settlements that existed from 1364 to 1413, little evidence remains to substantiate the old traditional tales. See African Masks of the Barbier-Mueller Collection and Collecting African Art in Liberia for further details.
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*The estimated delivery time is based on the seller's handling time, the shipping service selected, and when the seller receives cleared payment. Sellers are not responsible for shipping service transit times. Transit times may vary, particularly during peak periods.
Please contact us immediately if ~ for any reason ~ you are not pleased with your selection. We will gladly refund the purchase price of any item returned in its original condition within 14 days of dated delivery. Our commitment to 5 Star customer service and satisfaction ensures that YOUR satisfaction is Unconditionally Guaranteed ~ NO questions asked!
The buyer is responsible for return shipping costs.
We're delighted to combine shipments and reduce your costs, simply email your Zip/Postal Code PRIOR to making payment. All major credit cards and PayPal are gladly accepted. Payment is expected within 7 days of your purchase. In consideration of discounts given, we respectfully request immediate payment on all Best Offers unless arrangements are made prior to acceptance. Please contact us directly if other payment arrangements are necessary - we're always happy to help!
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