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Vintage Seli Ripolin Ivory Coast Tribal Mask

$ 89.23

Availability: 100 in stock
  • Condition: The mask is in very good condition with vibrant colors. There are some rub marks as expected for such a vintage piece, and there is a small piece of an ear broken off.
  • All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
  • 20th Century: 20th Century
  • Modified Item: No
  • Handmade: Yes
  • Country/Region of Manufacture: Cote d'Ivoire
  • Provenance: Ownership History Not Available
  • Item must be returned within: 30 Days
  • Restocking Fee: No
  • Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
  • Refund will be given as: Money Back

    Description

    You are bidding on an original hand-carved mask that has a label stating it was made in the Ivory Coast in West Africa.
    This mask came from a long-time collector in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and this person passed away in her 90’s.
    From what I have been able to learn, it appears to have been made by the Guro people. They have five sacred animals, which include the elephant depicted on this mask.
    This type of very colorful mask, also known as "Ripolin masks" appeared with the arrival of the first paintings brought back by the colonists; Ripolin was the name of the French paint that was typically used.
    These secular masks were historically used in traditional ceremonies such as weddings, funerals, and animal sacrifices.
    These masks typically depict females, but are worn only by men. This mask is fully finished and you will see that it has multiple paint colors as well as the traditional wooden collar.
    Its age is unknown, but likely dates from the 1950’s or earlier. The mask makes an excellent wall hanging and measures approximately 24” tall x 8” wide x 5” deep and weighs about 27 ounces. The mask is in very good condition with minimal wear, but if you look closely you will notice that a piece of the left ear is broken off; I expect that this could be restored quite easily.