This is a stylish 19th century tribal mask from Gabon, the Galoa people The mask has a dramatic kaolin white face and its decorative original painted finish. There is some characterful wear to the right side which has a good antique look. The mask comes with a bespoke iron stand which enhances the decorative appearance.The Galoa or Galwa people live downstream from Lambarene on the banks of the Ogooue river. They are a Pounou sub-group nicknamed the people of the lake. Their neighbours are the Kota and the Adouma. They produce many Okouyi and Okukwe masks and initiation societies . These masks were used to help in divination and thus denounce practitioners of black magic. The Galoa worship the ancestors the bwiti. Sculptures tokens of protection are placed on the reliquaries.The mask measures 32 cms high 15 wide by 12 deep. On the stand this is 37 cms overall in height. insured delivery is �15Rams Head Antiques is a family business based in Wolsingham in Weardale where we have had shop premises for 28 years. The shop is generally open every Saturday from 11 am till 3 pm.You are most welcome to visit the shop but please always check to confirm we are open before travelling. We have been in the antiques trade for well over thirty years now and stock a wide and varied range of antiques and decorative items specialising in carpets and Eastern and Oriental items as well as Georgian and Victorian furniture, mirrors, oil paintings, prints, ceramics and clocks.We can arrange worldwide delivery on all the items we have in stock, please ask for an accurate quote.Email: We offer a full money back guarantee if you are not happy for whatever reason within a seven day period as long as the buyer pays for transportation costs.Height is 32cm (12.6inches)
Width is 15cm (5.9inches)
Depth is 12cm (4.7inches)