VINTAGE BWA BUFFALO MASK BURKINA FASO

Description

For your consideration is this large and impressive old mask. T
he curved horns and muzzle identify it as a bush buffalo;
the long triangular muzzle is hollow to allow the dancer to see.
This dramatic mask is boldly painted with black, red and white pigments; the rim area is perforated with ten attachment openings.
Masks with human or animal forms are created by the Bwa people to symbolize protective bush spirits and
masked dancers perform for initiations, funerals, market days, harvest celebrations, and annual renewal rituals  intended to protect the well-being of the community.
BWA BUFFALO MASK
Country of origin: Burkina Faso
Region: West Africa
Material: Wood, paint
Age : circa 1940
Condition: Excellent overall, with two insignificant hairlines reflecting age and use
Provenance: Acquired by seller in 1977 from a fellow African Art collector in New York City
Dimensions :
13.5" (34cm) L. x 17" (43.1cm) H. x 13" (33cm) W.
Weight: 3lb.10 oz.
Winner adds 0 shipping and insurance costs within continental U.S.
No International Sales
In a marketplace teeming with fake “African” carving manufactured from as far away as China (!)
and artificially aged for quick sale to inexperienced buyers or price-conscious shoppers at impossibly
low cost, it is becoming increasingly difficult to acquire genuine old and ethnographically significant
artworks ritually used by indigenous group members.
If not to U.S. buyer’s satisfaction, this artwork may be returned as shipped within thirty days
of purchase for a purchase price refund
minus 10% re-stocking fee for return of item in original
condition and shipping materials.
Please review seller’s 100% positive “feedback” record and bid with confidence.
Bidders with five or fewer "feedback" (or private) comments are welcome to bid, but must first contact seller to verify ID;
if there are questions, please inquire before bidding.
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