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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Marka : Marka Wooden Mask Plaited with Brass Sheets
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Marka Wooden Mask Plaited with Brass Sheets - PF.4409
Origin: Central Mali
Circa: 19
th
Century AD
to 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
19" (48.3cm) high
x 8.5" (21.6cm) wide
Collection: African
Style: Marka
Medium: Wood, Brass, Cloth
Additional Information: Height Does Not Include the Cloth
$6,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
An African mask occupies a unique position in
being part of the material world and the
supernatural. The people of a village may regard
a mask as having been given to them by a
mythical being; either a divinity, primordial
ancestor or a hero. Such otherworldly figures
were a real part of everyday life and artists, like
sorcerers, were often mediums of
communication between them. In the creation of
a mask the sculptor may collaborate with a
superhuman being who reveals the design in a
dream; a prototype image which the artist would
later carve. This rapport was important, for it
was to these spirits the people appealed in
ceremonies where the mask was used.
Often masks were given animal features, as in
this example, adorned with horns of an antelope.
The elongated face does bear certain zoomorphic
qualities; yet the impression is very much of a
warrior; with its powerfully set eyes and shiny
skin of brass. The hair is very carefully incised
with fine lines. The upper portion has an woven
cord of red and brown cloth, to which is attached
a flowing strip of blue linen. When held high the
overall effect of this mask is breathtaking.
- (PF.4409)
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