#1474 Superb African Bakota Gabon Bronze/Brass Sculpture 24.5 " H W/stand

This beautiful Bakota African Reliquary Mask is crafted of Hammered Copper  This Mask is called a Reliquary Guardian and these figures were mounted on containers holding relics of important clan ancestors, serving as their guardians. Two-dimensional and sheathed in Brass an Copper, these figures include projecting shapes around the face that refer to elaborate coiffures, and a diamond shape below the neck that is an abstracted body form. At the time of initiation in the reliquary cult, the clans would meet to perform communal rituals; each clan’s chief would dance holding the reliquary. This guardian mask would be a wonderful addition to your collection.