West Africa, Mali, Marka (Warka) peoples, ca. mid to late 20th century CE. A striking wood dyoboli koun mask featuring a zoomorphic visage adorned with incised brass plates. Crowned by a pair of diagonally striated horns, the elongated vizard displays a heavy brow above openwork eyes, an extended chin, a straight mouth, and a projecting nose. A low crest lines the top of the head, while brass covers the forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin, all adorned with dotted geometric motifs. The periphery features a series of drill holes for attachment. Size: 5.3" W x 13.9" H (13.5 cm x 35.3 cm); 19.4" H (49.3 cm) on included custom stand.
The Marka people are the descendants of the Soninke people, whose settlements date from ca. 750 CE in Ghana; conflicts with the Berbers led to dispersal throughout the region and today they are famous for their masks and puppets. This piece has some of the classic traits of the Marka - metal sheeting and colorful details that are used to disguise the identity of the wearer - that distinguish their masks from those of their neighbors, the Bambara.
Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection; ex-Michael Rhodes collection, New York, USA; ex-Papa Alle Gueye collection, France
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#172603
Condition
Some chipping and minor losses to edges of brass. Expected surface wear with some nicks and abrasions. Otherwise, excellent with nice patina.