Family Mask
Bassa, Liberia
Early 20th Century

Previous Collection: William Siegmann (Former curator of African Art at the Brooklyn Museum)

Mid sized masks such as this example are known as Family masks. Opposed to being used by an individual; these masks were owned by a family and were either kept in the family hut or shrine even sometimes traveled with an important family member. This example has red cloth and fiber attachments much like the larger Bassa dance masks that were attached to baskets and worn on the person. This example is classic Bassa with its diminutive pursed lips and bulging forehead.

This Mask Stands 6 “ Tall

SOLD / 7-10-11