Chamba — Nigeria
1930s
Wood
Height: 20 in (50.8 cm)
Provenance: Leonard Stanley, Los Angeles, CA
This nam gbalang bush cow mask is carved with a domed head, long projecting horns, squared open mouth, and a central ridge running the length of the head. The upward sweep of the horns counters the broad mouth and low profile of the head, creating a strong sense of tension and movement within a compact form. The dark worn surface and softened edges are consistent with age, handling, and ceremonial use.
Chamba bush cow masks are characterized by the reduction of animal form to its most essential structural elements, producing objects of considerable sculptural force from a spare formal vocabulary. The proportions of this example are especially well resolved, reading with equal strength in profile and frontally.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Chamba — Nigeria
1930s
Wood
Height: 20 in (50.8 cm)
Provenance: Leonard Stanley, Los Angeles, CA
This nam gbalang bush cow mask is carved with a domed head, long projecting horns, squared open mouth, and a central ridge running the length of the head. The upward sweep of the horns counters the broad mouth and low profile of the head, creating a strong sense of tension and movement within a compact form. The dark worn surface and softened edges are consistent with age, handling, and ceremonial use.
Chamba bush cow masks are characterized by the reduction of animal form to its most essential structural elements, producing objects of considerable sculptural force from a spare formal vocabulary. The proportions of this example are especially well resolved, reading with equal strength in profile and frontally.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
