Biombo Mask, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Pierre Vérité, Paris
Claude Vérité, Paris, by descent from the above
Bernard Dulon, Paris, acquired from the above
Private American Collection, acquired from the above

Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Marks, nicks, scratches and abrasions consistent with age and use. Age cracks at top of head, including an open age crack from the back center running up to topmost of the three points of the coiffure. Other small age cracks radiating from top of the head. Hairline surface age cracks to proper left side of face. Insect damage under chin, in proper left cheek, in forhead, in proper left edge on reverse, and in center of reverse. Some remains if insect casings in crevices. Old nails in top of head, one with remants of string. Remaining basketry attachment in good state of preservation with cracks, breaks, and fraying in places. Fine aged surface with red-ochre, black, and white pigment. Rectangular label on reverse with "S488" written in black ink. Three old labels on proper right top of mask behind coiffure, two with double blue borders and one of those with the number "240" in ink, the third with "3137".
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.

For a closely related mask previously in the collection of Jay C. Leff, Uniontown, see Carnegie Institute (1969: cover).