A finely carved warthog mask from the Ligbi people of the Ivory Coast.
From the Bondoukou Region, this mask represents a warthog known as ‘leu’. In the past, Do performances possessed religious significance, but today they are considered primarily entertainment, staged to celebrate special occasions. Since most of the peoples who maintain the tradition are Muslim, masquerades are held during festivals marking the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting.
The word ‘Do’ means secrecy or something that is hidden. Do masquerades are also organised for weddings and funerals. Do performances may best be described as theatre because they are similarly structured to a play. The warthog is stalked by a hunter, and in this reenactment of the hunt, the hunter shoots his gun but misses his target, and the warthog proceeds to attack the hunter and prevails.
This particular mask is in good worn condition and has a fantastic patina.
Delivery within the UK mainland (excluding Devon,
... Cornwall, Scotland & Wales) is free of charge and will be completed by my own privately appointed courier. Please enquire with us for delivery costs if in Devon, Cornwall, Wales, Scotland or Northern Ireland.
Alternatively, buyer to collect.Internal Reference: 699
Antique ID Number (AIDN): SA1182168
Dateline of this antique is 19th Century
Height is 46cm (18.1inches)Width is 0cm (0.0inches)Depth is 0cm (0.0inches)
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