Lot 219
  • 219

DAN BIRD MASK, LIBERIA

Estimate
6,000 - 9,000 USD
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Description

  • wood

Provenance

Collected in Eastern Liberia by Hayden and Odette Walling, 1952 - 1954 
By descent to the present owner

Condition

Good condition overall for an object of this type and age. Losses to bottom rim of mask. Minor nicks and scratches. Wear and tear throughout from traditional use. Exceptionally fine blackened patina. Cloth and fiber padding attached to rim fragile.
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

Hayden Walling was based in the Liberian town Kpain as an administrator of the World Health Organization.  Interested in Liberian art and culture, he and his wife Odette befriended Dr. George Harley, the medical doctor, missionary, prolific field collector and author of the monograph Notes on the Poro in Liberia (1941).