Horned Mask of the Galwa (Galoa)

Gabon, 44 cm (1' 5") The present rare and little-known bush spirit mask of the Galwa is a remarkable example of the traditional mask-making art of Gabon. Like the masks of the Kwele, it embodies the profound spiritual connection between humankind, nature, the forest, and its creatures. Within this traditional belief system, forest spirits occupy an important position, finding their visible expression in the art of mask-making. The mask is crowned by two prominent horns, whose surfaces, like the face itself, are decorated with white kaolin and reddish laterite pigments. The expressive face is characterised by perfectly circular eyes, a small mouth, and finely modelled ears. The restrained yet compelling sculptural language lends the mask a distinctly archaic presence. The interior displays a beautiful patina, developed through prolonged handling and use, testifying to its extensive ritual employment. An almost identical comparable example is illustrated in the publication Les Forêts natales, p. 132, fig. 259. The rarity of this mask type, its distinctive artistic design, and the impressive traces of ritual use make this object a particularly fascinating example of the traditional art of Gabon. Provenance: Patrick Leclerc, France; Gerhard F. Vesely, Austria. Estimate: € 3600 - 4000 Starting bid: € 2000

Estimate:£3,003.45

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