Lot: 407

77th tribal art auction

Helmet mask

Cameroon Grassfields, Bamileke

Provenance Size Starting price / estimated price
German Collection H: 14.6 inch sold

wood, partly shiny brown patina, kaolin, pierced ears, wooden plug on one side, min. dam., small missing parts, slight traces of abrasion;
shows the distinct headdress of royal titled wives, symbolizing the role of women as complementary to men. The complete traditional vestment consists of a garment of blue and white royal cloth and a flywhisk. The mask dances in short contained steps appropriate to her noble image.