Beautiful Maasai Tribal Warrior Mask, Carved from Teak, Vintage 60s African Art

Description

This exquisitely carved mask features a smiling, victorious Massai warrior.
The Massai people are one of the most famous groups in African culture. While they are more commonly associated with Kenya, they are also located in Tanzania.
This mask shows the characteristic stretching of the earlobes which is common among the Maasai. Because the Maasai are nomadic, they don’t have the ancestor cults that many African people groups do. In many African cultures, masks are used in rituals to honor the ancestors, but in Maasai culture the masks are historically worn in traditional ceremonies including celebrations, initiations, crop harvests, and war preparations.
This beautiful mask has impeccable detail and expression that almost gives you the feeling that the mask is alive. The grain in the wood (which we believe is teak) is clearly seen.
This mask measures 12.3" high, is 6.2" wide, and is just over 3" deep. This one would look great on the wall with other tribal art, it's a highly collectible piece.
Note how the artist gave it a full row of upper teeth, but just one lone tooth in the lower mouth.
The mask is in excellent vintage condition, with no cracks, dings or bug holes. The word "Fiji" was mistakenly written on the back of it by a previous owner.
Thank you for your interest in this unique mask. It will be professionally packaged, we guarantee safe delivery.
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