Beaded Mask from the Democratic Republic of Congo- 13-1/2\"H For Sale

This vintage tribal mask from the Democratic Republic of Congo is being made available from our private collection. This is a fully beaded wooden mask with rope netting for the hair and beard. The beads and rope are cemented in over the wood, and the whole piece is very heavy. There are larger beads cemented into the ears. There is an all seeing eye on the forehead that takes on the green color of the eyes and nose. A tremendous amount of time was invested in making this piece. It is really impressive. There are two cracks in the wood on the back of the mask, one on the top left, and one on the bottom left (see photos). These cracks do not flow through to the front. Also, a few of the beads seem loose on the left eye, but they are secured in, possibly because they are threaded into the other beads.About the Provenance:While living in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania in 1998-99, we made a trip over to the D.R. of Congo as we were informed that the best masks come from there. We purchased many on that trip to add to our collection. We intended on selling these museum quality pieces back in the U.S. when we arrived home, however life got in the way and this mask along with all of the others ended up sitting in boxes on a shelf for 25 years. We are slowly listing the entire collection here for sale.
Size and Weight:Approximate Dimensions: 13-1/2\"H x 10-1/4\"W x 5\"DWeight: 1lb 10.5oz, or 746g

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