- 202
Igbo Mask, Nigeria
Estimate
7,000 - 10,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- wood
- Height: 16 1/2 in (41.9 cm)
Provenance
Boris Kegel-Konietzko, Hamburg
Julius and Josefa Carlebach, New York, acquired from the above in 1963
Zafrira and Itzhak Shoher, Tel Aviv, acquired from the above
Julius and Josefa Carlebach, New York, acquired from the above in 1963
Zafrira and Itzhak Shoher, Tel Aviv, acquired from the above
Condition
Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Marks, nicks, scratches, and abrasions consistent with age and use. Minor hairline age cracks in proper left horn. Proper left ear cracked and reattached with two old nails. Cluster of drill holes from a previous mounting at center of reverse, one with broken-off wooden peg. Burned spots on top edge of rim on reverse and at proper left back edge of jaws. Eyes inset with mirror fragments. Hole in surface of one of two raised circles at top of mask behind horns, filled and blackened. Fine aged blackened surface with remains of white and red pigment. Number "29007" painted on reverse.
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.
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
The north central part of the Igbo region of southeastern Nigeria is home to one of the oldest and most diverse masking traditions. Hundreds of spirit-characters are represented with a rich variety of masks. For a related mask from that region, see Cole and Aniakor (1984: 118, fig. 220). Regarding the use of this type of mask, Cole notes (ibid): "Younger men - unruly, adventurous, strong, exuberant, inexhaustible - dominate the swarms of the 'Locust Spirits', Igwulube Mmanwu, that invade villages at dry season festivals [...] bright eyed and restless, donning dozens of masking costumes to fill the air with spirits, like locusts, 'flying', running, trampling, whipping, playing the fool, harassing, stirring up trouble, flocking from one place to another for hours on end, usually in groups."