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A Powerful Female ‘Bakorozai’ Initiation Mask
$38,000
£28,949.69
€33,038.44
CA$53,398.99
A$58,195.50
CHF 30,817.03
MX$698,989.31
NOK 390,150.41
SEK 358,704.92
DKK 246,760.54
About the Item
A Powerful Female ‘Bakorozai’ Initiation Mask
The brown patina testifies to the ritual use and great age of this rare mask
Wood
Loma / Guerze-Kpelle, Liberia
Late 19th Century
Size: 29cm high - 11½ ins high
Provenance:
Ex Dintenfass collection, USA
Ex Lucas Ratton, Paris, France
Ex Private English collection
Called ‘Bakorozai’ in the vernacular language of Liberia, the mask was sued during the initiation ‘rite’ of the ‘Poro’ which takes place every seven or ten years. During the initiation ceremonies young boys learn to become men, taking place in the forest ‘sacred wood’. In Liberia, the hierarchy of the ‘Poro’ constitutes a real political, commercial and military structure. The masks of the ‘Poro’ are endowed with great powers which enable them to watch over and protect the young initiates.
This female ‘Bakororzai’ mask is distinct from its masculine ‘Bakorogui’ counterpart. The stretched almond shaped eyes are a sign of beauty and discretion while the open mouth indicates that the mask can ‘speak’ when it appears.
- Dimensions:Height: 11.5 in (29.21 cm)Width: 7 in (17.78 cm)Depth: 4 in (10.16 cm)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Late 19th Century
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use.
- Seller Location:London, GB
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU9363243329302
About the Seller
5.0
Recognized Seller
These prestigious sellers are industry leaders and represent the highest echelon for item quality and design.
Established in 1989
1stDibs seller since 2023
Typical response time: <1 hour
- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: London, United Kingdom
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