Description: Item/Description: Decorative Makonde helmet mask. Lipiko masks, which in the language of the Makonde people means �helmet mask" come from the minority ethnic group of the Makonde live in southern Tanzania and northeastern Mozambique. The Makonde are known as some of the most expert mask carvers in Africa. This mask is used primarily for the mapiko dance held at adult initiation rituals for boys and girls and at funerals. The masquerader channels the spirit of dead ancestors through the mask. Worn on the head , the features are life-like with closed eyes, open mouth with carved wooden teeth, rowed hair style of human hair mixed with beeswax.

Material: Hand carved wood, hair, pigment

Dimensions: Length: 8 1/2"; Width: 8 1/2"; Depth: 7"

Condition: Surface use and age wear includes linear crack through face, hole under left eye, abrasions, paint and fabric loss to scalp, missing teeth.

Age: 20th Century

Provenance: Private collection from a single New York estate

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Buyers premium: 18%