Hello Patrick, I’m very glad that you chose Mearto for your online appraisal, Considering the photographs, overall pattern, materials used, outline and the colours, I concluded that this is an Entirely Hand Painted African Gelede Mask. The piece dates back to the period from 1960 to 1980. Masks like this are worn by men in elaborate masquerade performances known as "Gelede.". Larger eyes, smiling face and the carved figure of a snake at the top is usually seen on Gelede Masks. The purpose of the performance is to pay tribute to the special power of women, both elders and ancestors, who are known affectionately as "our mothers.". The snake on this compositions are quite important both as a decorative element and as a symbolic figure. Snake symbolize the positive feminine qualities of patience and coolness as well as the open eyed, on the alert state of woman in the culture. There is also one more figure holding the snake, this figures are shaped variously either as people or bird like creatures. On this piece this creature is unidentified as a specific species, this maybe due to lack of detailed pictures as well. The piece is in good condition without significant faults but small signes of use and age. Entirely hand made. Dimensions: Unknown. Condition: The piece is in good condition without significant faults but small signes of use and age. Provenance: Unknown. 90-140$. Please don’t hesitate to reach us again for more online appraisals on your precious items, thank you for choosing Mearto.
