Global Art & Artifacts

spirit

Chokwe / Tchokwe Chikwekwe Bird Mask.  Angola

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    Chokwe are an ethnic group of Central and Southern Africa, primarily in Angola, Congo and Zambia.  They are regionally famous for their exceptional crafts work, particularly with baskets, pottery, mask carving, statues, stools and other handicrafts. The works of art include utilitarian objects, integrating Chokwe mythologies, oral… Continue reading

Senufo Double-Faced Mask.  Kpelie.  Tribal.  Ancestral.  Cote D’Ivoire Africa

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    The Senufo – a traditional agricultural people of the northern savanna – Kpelie masks either represent a Poro ancestor or a supernatural spirit of a deceased village person.   This double-faced mask has provided a variety of functions.  It is a significant part of the rites of… Continue reading

Old Spiritual Dan People Mask.  Wood.  Liberia. Africa

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    Dan masks are so very intriguing!   In the 9th Century, the Dan people migrated from western Sudan region to the north which is part of (present day) Mali.  Then, because of conflict, they migrated to Cote D’Ivoire . . .  and – present day –… Continue reading

Large Bulu  Boulou Gorilla Ape Statue. Sculpture.  Carved Figure. Simian.  Museum Quality.  Cameroon

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    Simian sculptures and figures from the equatorial forest of West Africa have been a mystery to anthropologists and sociologists for years. What is their purpose?   It only takes some imagination to realize the historical relationships and interactions with lowland gorillas and this tribe.   Bottom line: … Continue reading

Vintage Balinese Rangda Mask.  Mythology.  Durga.  Bali.

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    Rangda – a dramatic manifestation of the Goddess of the Underworld, Durga – is the demon queen of the Leyaks.  Leyaks are spirit/ghost-like figures in Bali that appear as humans during the daylight but – at night – their head and entrails break off from their bodies… Continue reading

Wood Ceremonial Mei Ancestor Spirit Mask, Iatmul Middle Sepik Papua New Guinea

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Detail:  Very incised Mei Mask from Iatmul.  Lots of painted scrolling ornament on the face and the famous curved nose adjoining the chin feature (with a serpent head at the chin).  The red and white pigment is still present over all the mask.  These masks (also… Continue reading

Wood Pole Kambot Ancestor Spirit Mask, Papua New Guinea

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Detail:  Bold ancestor spirit mask from a Kambot village, Lower Sepik River in New Guinea.  The knob at the bottom is for holding during dance rituals and ceremonies.  Cassowary feathers surround the face.  Collected in the early 1970’s.  In excellent condition.  Stand not included.… Continue reading

Sandstone Apsara Bust, Cambodia

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Detail: Apsaras – a woodland spirit – are supernatural women in costumes who performed sacred dances in the ancient Angkor temples. This is a reproduction of a relief at Angkor Wat. Sandstone on a metal stand.     SOLD.  Thanks M.S.  !!    

Chokwe – Chihongo Spirit Mask, Congo Africa

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From Congo/Angola/Zambia area where the Chokwe population resides.  Chihongo is the male spirit of wealth and power.  This older tribal art mask was used in ceremonial events.  Ratan and feathers form the headgear and woven rope form the bib.  Carved from native wood.  Stand not included.
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