Bafum Region, Western Grasslands — Cameroon
Circa 1900
Wood
Height: 9¾ in (24.8 cm)
Provenance: Romy Rey, London
Published: The Art of Cameroon, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C., 1984, p. 160, fig. 92
This mask is carved with a strongly elongated oval form, the profile dramatically extended in relation to its breadth — a sculptural approach documented as specific to the northwest Grasslands kingdoms of Bafum, Fungom, and Esu. The protruding spherical eyes, arched nose, open mouth, and rounded cheeks are rendered with a deliberate exaggeration that amplifies the mask's performative presence. The deeply hollowed interior and old dark glossy patina are consistent with ceremonial use and age.
The mask is illustrated in The Art of Cameroon (Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C., 1984), where the distinctive profile proportions of this regional type are discussed in the context of Grasslands masking traditions. The piece was formerly in the collection of Romy Rey, London.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
Bafum Region, Western Grasslands — Cameroon
Circa 1900
Wood
Height: 9¾ in (24.8 cm)
Provenance: Romy Rey, London
Published: The Art of Cameroon, Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C., 1984, p. 160, fig. 92
This mask is carved with a strongly elongated oval form, the profile dramatically extended in relation to its breadth — a sculptural approach documented as specific to the northwest Grasslands kingdoms of Bafum, Fungom, and Esu. The protruding spherical eyes, arched nose, open mouth, and rounded cheeks are rendered with a deliberate exaggeration that amplifies the mask's performative presence. The deeply hollowed interior and old dark glossy patina are consistent with ceremonial use and age.
The mask is illustrated in The Art of Cameroon (Smithsonian Institution, Washington, D.C., 1984), where the distinctive profile proportions of this regional type are discussed in the context of Grasslands masking traditions. The piece was formerly in the collection of Romy Rey, London.
We ship free anywhere in the world, fully insured, packed by hand.
