This is for is a nice old vintage Dogon Warrior Helmet Mask topped by a small head sculpture. This one looks to represent possibly a monkey. These masks were used in dances of a celebratory or social nature. It was found with my great uncle's collection of African masks. He owned a antique store in Los Angeles.
It has been in storage for my years. Height: 16.5 inches (42cm).Width and Depth: 7 inches (17.75 cm). Dogon art is extremely versatile, although common stylistic, such as a tendency towards stylization are apparent on the statues. Their are deals with the myths whose complex ensemble regulates the life of the individual. The sculptures are preserved in numerable sites of worship, personal or family alters. Dogon social and religious organizations are closely interlinked and out of this arose principal cults, which accounts for the richness and diversity of Dogon culture and art.
The clans are subdivided onto lineages, overseen by the patriarch, guardian of the clan's ancestral shrine and officiant at the totemic animal cult. Beside this hierarchical system of consanguinity, male and female associations are entrusted with the initiations that take place by age group, corresponding to groups of newly circumcised or excised boys or girls. The Dogon believe these operations remove the female element from males and vice versa. This item is in the category "Antiques\Ethnographic\African\Masks". The seller is "emonkeyoc" and is located in this country: US. This item can be shipped worldwide.