Bamileke Beaded Elephant Mask, Cameroon

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Bamileke Beaded Elephant Mask, Cameroon

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Sold Date: 11/01/2007
Channel: Online Auction
Source: eBay
Category: Ethnic, Folk & Native American Art

African Tribal Art

Bamileke Elephant Mask

Cameroon

Material: beads, fabric Condition: use & wear, overall good Size: approx 48" (122 cm ) Weight: 1.90 kg ref J1833

Bamileke Elephant Mask

Cameroon

This is the second of two kuosi society masks which I am selling on eBay.

The kuosi society, who wore these wonderful masks, existed at the very apex of Bamileke society and included the King himself. The photo below, taken during the 1930's, shows the Bamileke Sultan surrounded by other kuosi members :

Like so many court masks in the Grasslands, elephant masks are covered with beadwork. It would take weeks to make these items, sewing thousands of beads by hand.

The long flaps at the front and back are symbolic of the elephant's trunk. During the ritual dances, the wearer pinches the flap into a tube which becomes a lot more elephantine. The round disks at either side are the ears.

This genuine example has been danced and has some staining, damage and tears, but is completely authentic.

A rare and exciting display item!

Shipping: Delivery is by registered airmail, 7 - 21 days. Buyer pays no more than actual shipping costs. Rates for this item are shown below:

Shipping Cost For This Item United States $54 Europe $43 Australasia $50

We are happy to combine items to save on shipping, with the proviso that very large, heavy or fragile items cannot always be combined.

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