Ritual Power Mask with Metal Plates and Horns – Mande Cultural Sphere, West Africa, late 19th to early 20th century lot 441
Authentic West African ritual power mask carved from wood and fitted with hand worked metal plates, rings and horns. Originating from the Mande cultural sphere in Guinea. Late 19th to early 20th century. Compact ceremonial object with strong ritual character.
Height: 31 cm
Width: 10 cm
Depth: approx. 6 cm
Weight: approx. 0.5 kg
This compact ritual power mask originates from Guinea and belongs to the wider Mande cultural sphere of West Africa. It is carved from a single block of wood and reinforced with hand worked metal plates, tailor nails and metal rings, forming a protective and symbolic surface rather than a purely visual one.
The upper section is crowned with horn elements bound with old cotton and natural fibers, enclosing a ritual charge. Such features indicate a ceremonial or protective function connected to initiation or power related practices, rather than a public dance or entertainment context.
The surface displays natural oxidation of the metal and a dark, stable patina on the wood. Wear patterns are consistent with age and ritual handling. The interior is roughly hollowed by hand and shows no evidence of modern alteration or restoration.
This is an honest and intact ritual object, valued for its authenticity, material integrity and cultural context rather than scale or ornament alone.
Ritual Power Mask with Metal Plates and Horns – Mande Cultural Sphere, West Africa, late 19th to early 20th century lot 441
Description
Estimated value: €450 – €750
This ritual power mask originates from the Mande cultural sphere of Guinea and was carved from solid wood with applied metal plates, tailor nails, metal rings, natural fibers and cotton bindings. The construction and materials indicate a functional ritual object rather than a decorative mask.
The metal elements are hand worked and naturally oxidized. The wood surface shows deep patina and wear consistent with age and handling. A ritual charge is present between the horn elements, secured with old textile and fiber bindings. The interior is hand hollowed and shows no modern tooling, adhesives or repairs.
The compact size and weight indicate use as a power or protection mask associated with initiation or ceremonial contexts, rather than public dance performance. Minor surface wear and ageing are consistent with prolonged ritual use and do not affect structural integrity.
Based on material, construction, patina and stylistic comparison, this mask is confirmed as an authentic late 19th to early 20th century West African ritual object.
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Ritual Power Mask with Metal Plates and Horns – Mande Cultural Sphere, West Africa, late 19th to early 20th century lot 441
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