Bamileke Elephant Mask, Western Grassfields, Cameroon

ntshen
height 44 1/2in (113cm)

Provenance
Philippe Guimiot, Brussels
Baudouin de Grunne Collection, Brussels
Bernard de Grunne, Brussels
American Private Collection, acquired in 1997

Published
Northern, Tamara, The Art of Cameroon, Washington, D.C., 1984, fig. 89
Bargna, Ivan, African Art, Woodbridge, Suffolk: Antique Collector's Club, 2000, no. 91

Exhibited
Washington, D.C., The Art of Cameroon, National Museum of African Art, Smithsonian Institution, 1984

Tamara Northern notes (Ibid., p. 157), "The elephant mask is rarely represented in lineage mask groups, underscoring the exclusive status of this royal icon and the high privilege inherent in authorizing its use for a lineage mask group. As part of such a group, the elephant mask is the second leader mask - - second only to Nkang, represented by a human icon. It is the last to appear, concluding the entrance and the exit of its mask group. Throughout its performance it dances staidly in accordance with its elevated status."

This enormous helmet mask depicting the head of an elephant is both simple and complex. Skillfully carved from one piece of wood, the artist has captured the essence of the elephant with a domed head, large circular and curved ears positioned as if in a flapping motion. Two modest incised circles serve as eyes appearing downcast on its bold, prominent snout. The two curvilinear tusks projecting out of the mouth are aggressive yet elegantly provide an aesthetic balance with the ears above; fine, blackened patina with wear indicative of significant cultural use and age. The whole construction is ominous in character, yet gracefully balanced in form, making it one of the most exquisite examples in private hands.