Lot 159
  • 159

A Fine Bwa Plank Mask, nwantantay, Burkina Faso

Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 USD
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Description

Provenance

Merton D. Simpson, New York, late 1960s

Condition

Good condition overall for an object of this type and age; age crack through center of base and circular opening in the middle of the face, continuing vertically on top; beak-like protrusion broken and reattached; age cracks, chips and nicks as seen on photographs; fine aged patina with red, black and white pigment.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

According to Wheelock (2007: 410, text to pl. 140), plank masks such as the offered lot "are the major artistic expression of the southern Bwa. The masks are signboards or tablets on which the graphic patterns communicate the ethical and moral values of the community. [...] The black and white checkerboard [...] represents the value of lifelong learning."