A Makonde initiation helmet mask (Lipico mask)
A Makonde initiation helmet mask (Lipico mask), Tanzania, c. early 20th Century. Made of carved wood and decorated with carved tribal scarification. The head is decorated with real human hair. The mask retains yellow paint in the eyes around the pupil, and the teeth are carved into sharp points. Signs or wear and usage. These masks were used for a couple of occasions. They were used to scare women and children, and they were also used during the initiation of boys to men. The wearer would reveal to himself to the young boy to as a ceremonial rite of passage, symbolizing the revelation of the tribes secrets to the newly initiated man. H: 9 1/8 in (23.2cm), W: 7 3/4 in (19.8cm). Ex Philadelphia estate, purchased in the 1950's-1960's.
Condition: The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections , the effects of aging, or repair/restoration work. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid, and we will be happy to give you a full overview of the items' condition. All transactions are governed by Ancient Resource Auctions’ Conditions of Sale.
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A Makonde initiation helmet mask (Lipico mask), Tanzania, c. early 20th Century. Made of carved wood and decorated with carved tribal scarification. The head is decorated with real human hair. The mask retains yellow paint in the eyes around the pupil, and the teeth are carved into sharp points. Signs or wear and usage. These masks were used for a couple of occasions. They were used to scare women and children, and they were also used during the initiation of boys to men. The wearer would reveal to himself to the young boy to as a ceremonial rite of passage, symbolizing the revelation of the tribes secrets to the newly initiated man. H: 9 1/8 in (23.2cm), W: 7 3/4 in (19.8cm). Ex Philadelphia estate, purchased in the 1950's-1960's.
Condition: The absence of a condition statement does not imply that the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from wear and tear, imperfections , the effects of aging, or repair/restoration work. Interested bidders are strongly encouraged to request a condition report on any lots upon which they intend to bid, prior to placing a bid, and we will be happy to give you a full overview of the items' condition. All transactions are governed by Ancient Resource Auctions’ Conditions of Sale.
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
