Dovan cloth and cowrie shell helmet mask
This is a Dovan (Cote D'Ivoire?) "helmet" mask. Its features fabric (felt and denim) and cowrie shell decoration. It is full sized for actual use and shows wear commensurate with age. It was inherited in 1988 from Harry Bober, a noted NYU art historian who collected ethnographic works (among many other genres)
approx. 16" tall, (more, with trailing fabric) x 16" front to back x 6" wide
Inherited
Yes
Hi David,
Thank you for contacting Mearto with your appraisal inquiry.
Based on the photos and information provided, and subject to examination, this is:
An antique Dovan helmet mask
Ivory Coast, late 19th/early 20th Century
The felt and denim body decorated with cowrie shells
16 inches tall (excluding train), 16 inches front-to-back, 6 inches wide
CONDITION: This mask appears to be in good condition with minor wear and losses commensurate to age and use.
PROVENANCE: Acquired in 1988 from historian and Ethnographic collector Harry Bober
$500-700*
*represents a fair-market value for auction purposes; retail or asking price may vary.
Please let us know if you have additional items to appraise, or questions/concerns, and thank you again for using Mearto.
~ Delia
