Lot n° 251
Estimation :
10000 - 15000
EUR
- BAGA (Nimba) hardwood shoulder mask. Guinea. - Lot 251
- BAGA (Nimba) hardwood shoulder mask. Guinea.
One of the most emblematic and monumental sculptures in African art.
Large female bust mounted on four straight feet. The sculpture was covered with an ample costume. The head is coiffed like a helmet with a curvilinear crest ridge engraved with braids and chevrons. A small nipple-shaped mouth is sculpted beneath the busted nose. A network of arched, squared-off bands decorates the cheeks. The ears are prominent and the neck cylindrical. Between the breasts of the large, pendulous chest, two eyeholes allow the dancer to see.
This mask exalts the fertile, nurturing woman with a large bosom indicating that she is generous with her milk.
Very fine, shiny patina.
References for similar pieces:
Art of the Baga. F. Lamp, Prestel 1996. Masterpieces of Black Africa. Paris, Leleu, June 1952.
Les Arts africains, Paris, Cercle Volney, June 1955.
To be compared with a 1907 drawing by Picasso. Similar copy in the Musée Picasso, Paris.
Provenance: Brissonneau sale at Drouot on June 14, 2013.
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