A lovely example of a West African (Cote d'Ivoire) Senufo Kpelié mask with a traditional depiction of the Calao hornbill.
Senufo Kpelié masks are particularly significant cultural items that were used after death to honour deceased Senufo elders. The masks, are also known as kpeliye'e and generally feature "delicate oval faces with geometric projections at the sides. Raised and incised scarification patterns ornament their smooth, glossy surfaces. Considered feminine, the masks honor deceased Senufo elders with their grace and beauty." (The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Face Mask (Kpeliye'e)
The present example is notable for the Calao hornbill on the top, the fact that it is manufactured from a copper bronze alloy, and due to the significant level of detailing that has been carved and incised into the mask's surface. For the Senufo culture, the legend of the Calao says, that this bird picks at a man's forehead to give him power, knowledge and wisdom.
This particular mask was acquired by its previous owner in the 1970s while travelling through West Africa for business.
Length: 12.9 Inches
Width: 6.8 Inches
Depth: 5.5 Inches
In great condition but showing some of it's age. Note also a dent over one eye.
At Antiquus, we have been trading professionally in antiques for several generations. We stand by all our descriptions and antiques appraisals and valuations. Our specialists have studied extensively with post-graduate degrees in the arts.
If you are in doubt about anything please do feel free to ask and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Please feel free to contact us for more details about this piece, including additional images (we will be working on video clips in future). Reasonable offers are always carefully considered.
Exchanges and returns
We accept returns and exchanges if the item is found to be at fault or does not meet the description provided. You must advise us within 30-days of receipt. Please provide as much detail as possible.
Return postage and packing are at your cost.
Senufo Kpelié masks are particularly significant cultural items that were used after death to honour deceased Senufo elders. The masks, are also known as kpeliye'e and generally feature "delicate oval faces with geometric projections at the sides. Raised and incised scarification patterns ornament their smooth, glossy surfaces. Considered feminine, the masks honor deceased Senufo elders with their grace and beauty." (The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Face Mask (Kpeliye'e)
The present example is notable for the Calao hornbill on the top, the fact that it is manufactured from a copper bronze alloy, and due to the significant level of detailing that has been carved and incised into the mask's surface. For the Senufo culture, the legend of the Calao says, that this bird picks at a man's forehead to give him power, knowledge and wisdom.
This particular mask was acquired by its previous owner in the 1970s while travelling through West Africa for business.
Length: 12.9 Inches
Width: 6.8 Inches
Depth: 5.5 Inches
In great condition but showing some of it's age. Note also a dent over one eye.
At Antiquus, we have been trading professionally in antiques for several generations. We stand by all our descriptions and antiques appraisals and valuations. Our specialists have studied extensively with post-graduate degrees in the arts.
If you are in doubt about anything please do feel free to ask and we will get back to you as soon as possible.
Please feel free to contact us for more details about this piece, including additional images (we will be working on video clips in future). Reasonable offers are always carefully considered.
Exchanges and returns
We accept returns and exchanges if the item is found to be at fault or does not meet the description provided. You must advise us within 30-days of receipt. Please provide as much detail as possible.
Return postage and packing are at your cost.