Description: This is a superbly carved tribal helmet mask worn in ceremonies by the Makonde people an ethnic group that straddles the border between Mozambique and Tanzania in East Africa. This represents an important period in African history as it combines both traditional and more modern elements. The powerful male face bears the decorative scars of tribal initiation that are far less common now than when this mask was made probably some time between 1940 and the 1970s. He is wearing what appears to be a baseball cap with the detail of the adjustment strap at the back. These helmet masks are worn at the lupika ceremony when young people celebrate their coming of age. It is worn tilted back on the head with the only view through the slit in the mouth. The owner of this helmet may have wanted to identify with industries like oil or truck driving while showing off the tribal markings worn by his people since time immemorial. Slightly larger than life size it measures 10in high by 8in across.
Price: 180 GBP
Location: Melksham
End Time: 2024-12-10T16:14:33.000Z
Shipping Cost: 65.37 GBP
Product Images
Item Specifics
Returns Accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Primary Material: Wood
Antique: Yes
Original/ Repro: Original
Product: Masks
Region of Origin: Africa
Age: Post-1940
