Vintage Large Banda Mask 42” from Bagu/Bala Tribe, Guinea Antique

This is a striking large (42”) Banda Mask from the Baga/Balu tribe of the island of Guinea, hand-carved from a single piece of wood and decorated with natural pigments and thick raffia fiber. These masks were traditionally used in initiation ceremonies, spirit dances, and ancestral rituals. This piece comes from a private collection and shows expected signs of age, handling and tribal use, adding to its authenticity and character. It appears to have a repair around the nose area, hardly distinguishable from the method of carving on the mask (please see last pic). A fantastic statement piece for collectors of tribal art.Features:• Authentic hand-carved tribal mask• Elaborate crest carving at the top• Natural pigments of red, green, black and white • Heavy aged patina throughout • Traditional raffia fiber collar • Dramatic elongated face and nose• Excellent display sizeItem will be sent to buyer via UPS Ground. Payment within four days please.