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Wabi-Sabi Sculptural Assemblage: African Mitsogo Mask and Tofu grinder base
$3,960.94
£2,885
€3,391.12
CA$5,492.02
A$5,906.21
CHF 3,158.06
MX$71,227.18
NOK 39,935.83
SEK 36,386.69
DKK 25,339.20
About the Item
Wabi-Sabi Assemblage: Tofu Grinder Sculpture with Mitsogo Mask
Indonesia
Gabon, Early 20th Century
This striking sculptural assemblage unites two objects from different traditions into a single, powerful work of art.
The base is a hand-carved Indonesian tofu grinder board from the early 20th century, fashioned from dense reclaimed tropical hardwood. Its broad, square form and deeply carved central cavity bear the marks of decades of utilitarian use, with natural fissures, weathering, and tool marks that embody the wabi-sabi philosophy of imperfection and impermanence.
Inset within the grinder’s hollow is a Mitsogo (Tsogo) carved and painted wooden mask from Gabon, Africa. Characterised by its serene, stylised face, fine painted details, and woven rattan edging, the mask measures 23 cm in height and reflects the spiritual and ceremonial traditions of the Mitsogo people.
Together, these elements form a contemplative sculpture that transcends function, geography, and time. The work embodies a dialogue between cultures — the quiet dignity of an Indonesian daily life tool and the spiritual presence of a Gabonese mask — fused into a single object that resonates with organic modern interiors, minimalism, and cross-cultural collecting.
Uses and Display:
• As a commanding wall-mounted artwork
• As a free-standing sculptural centrepiece on a console or plinth
• As an evocative meditation object, uniting ritual, craft, and material history
Details:
• Origin: Indonesia (grinder); Gabon (mask, Mitsogo/Tsogo)
• Date: Early 20th century
• Materials: Reclaimed tropical hardwood, carved and painted wood, rattan
• Dimensions: Grinder board 69 × 65.5 × 8.5 cm; mask height 23 cm
• Condition: Excellent structural integrity. Age-related cracks, surface weathering, and tool marks consistent with use and cultural context.
This piece embodies the essence of wabi-sabi design and cultural assemblage, elevating everyday and ritual objects into a timeless sculptural composition.
We source distinctive sculptural objects from across the world. Please contact us for accurate international shipping quotes.
- Dimensions:Height: 3.35 in (8.5 cm)Width: 27.17 in (69 cm)Depth: 25.79 in (65.5 cm)
- Style:Organic Modern (Of the Period)
- Materials and Techniques:
- Place of Origin:
- Period:
- Date of Manufacture:Early 20th Century
- Condition:Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor structural damages. Minor fading. This item has been sprayed and treated for insects and woodworm as a precaution.
- Seller Location:London, GB
- Reference Number:1stDibs: LU2868345785442
About the Seller
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- ShippingRetrieving quote...Shipping from: Maldon, United Kingdom
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