MASQUE GELEDE, YORUBA, NIGERIA |

Masque Gelede, Yoruba, Nigeria

Collection Paul Guillaume (1891-1934), Paris, ca 1930
Collection Etienne Bignou (1891-1950), Paris
Ricqlès (de), Paris, Arts primitifs, Paris, 6 juin 1999, n°161
Collection privée, Paris, acquis lors de cette vente  Socle de Kichizô Inagaki (1876-1951)

Etiquette avec l'inscription "Dahomey" à l'intérieur du masque

Good condition for an objetc of this type and age. Important old wear all around the rim at the back of the mask. One stabilised open crack to the left side of the mask just aside from the snake. Another crack opens on its lower part is running under the proper left eye (both not visible in the catalogue illustration). small lack to the tip of the proper right ear. Abrasion to the tips and many losses in the first layer of the patina showing a varied shade of earth tones. White residue especially to the snake aroudn the proper right eye and inside de mouth.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."