Lot 208: An exceptional Lele mask

An exceptional Lele mask. Lele people, DR Congo H: 11". The mask with high and deeply incised brow with raised keloids to the edges, above large ocular orbits with raised coffee-bean eyes covered in hammered aluminum, the cheeks sharp and powerful, the nose similarly covered in metal as well as the mouth, the facial plane tapering. The whole attached to a beaded coif of later manufacture. Remains of reddish pigment to the whole surface.

This mask was obviously used in a ritual context and outlived the more fragile coif that was attached necessitating a newer one to be made for it. The mask shows fine age and use and is truly a distinguished and powerful example of Lele masking. On a custom base.
Ex. Irwin Cernic, NY

Price Realized: $900

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