The Senufo Mask: West African (Senufo Country, Ivory Coast) Brass and Wood Art for Sale

The Senufo Mask: West African (Senufo Country, Ivory Coast) Brass and Wood Art For Sale

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The Senufo Mask: West African (Senufo Country, Ivory Coast) Brass and Wood Art:
$635.00

Explore the enchanting world of West African artistry with this remarkable Senufo Mask, hailing from the Senufo Country in the Ivory Coast. Hand-carved from indigenous wood and adorned with intricate brass metal embellishments, this mask is a true masterpiece. The brass detailing showcases an exquisite design, adding a touch of elegance and cultural significance to this extraordinary piece.
Among the myriad Senufo masks, this one stands out as a true gem. It represents the Senufo (Hornbill) bird, symbolizing fertility and the continuation of life—a motif frequently found in West African art. These majestic birds are often depicted guarding village entrances, embodying protection and prosperity. This Senufo mask surpasses many others in both the precision and fluidity of its carving and the extensive hand-tooled inlaid brass details. It is indeed a substantial and striking work of art.
Designed as a wall hanging, this mask comes with a word of caution regarding its mounting. Due to the weight of the metal embellishments, it requires a secure and sturdy mounting system.
This Senufo mask carries a captivating history, cherished by my father. Its origin story adds to its allure. In the 1990s, my parents had the privilege of staying in the home of a notable Hollywood figure, a residence adorned with an impressive collection of African masks. Upon expressing admiration for these masks, my father received encouragement to begin his own collection. He was graciously provided with the contact information of a South African dealer specializing in masks from various tribes across the Ivory Coast. It was through this dealer, who spent half the year in the US and half on the continent of Africa, that my father sourced all of his tribal masks that are now on my account.
The Senufo people, numbering around a million and a half, reside across the Ivory Coast, Mali, and Burkina Faso. They sustain themselves primarily through agriculture and occasional hunting. Their villages are governed by a council of elders, with a chief elected from their ranks. Tribal unity is strengthened through the rituals of the Poro society, which initiates and educates men from the age of seven onward. Senufo spirituality revolves around Koulotiolo, a powerful god, and Katieleo, a goddess mother, who, through the Poro society's rituals, regenerate the world.
The Senufo tribe holds a special place in the art world, having been among the first tribal artists admired in the Western world. Their artistic output is prolific, characterized by statues and masks that feature realistic features or highly geometric shapes, emphasizing rhythm and the interplay between void and full spaces.
**Dimensions:**- Length: Approximately 28.5 inches- Width: Approximately 11 inches
Own a piece of West African culture and history with this extraordinary Senufo Mask. Its beauty, intricate detailing, and rich backstory will elevate any collection or living space. Don't miss this opportunity to acquire a stunning work of art that embodies the essence of Senufo artistry and spirituality. Order now to make it a cherished part of your collection today!