A superb Mossi or Kurumba mask, Mossi or Kurumba; Burkina faso
Of classical form, The mask with simple face covering with rounded form and cut out eyes, the nasal ridge with remains of fiber inserted in holes; the whole surmounted by a superstructure in the form of stylized horns rising up as a concave arc and connecting at the apex. Native repair to the superstructure. Excellent patina and signs of use. H. 49"
This mask may actually be Kurumba, as kamer points out. The closest comparable example, probably by the same carver is in the Tishman collection; the carving, pigment and even native repairs may indicate that this mask was originally created and used with the Tishman example, which was also collected by Kamer.
This lot is sold with a statement of Authentication by Dr. Arthur P. Bourgeois as well as a color Photocopy of the original bill of sale from Kamer signed and notarized by the estate of Rudolph de Harak.
Comments: Property from the estate of Rudolph de Harak
Provenance: Henri Kamer, NY and Paris, 1967
Ex. Rudolph de Harak, ME