Interesting Wooden "Sex mask"

Discussion in 'Tribal Art' started by Thomas40, May 28, 2021.

  1. Thomas40

    Thomas40 New Member

    Hello everyone,

    I found this peice in an antique shop, the gentleman running the store claims it to be a genuine tribal "sex mask".
    I had my doubts and asked about it's origin, of which he "forgot".
    Any leads or information regarding this mask will be highly appreciated.

    Screenshot_20210528-103438~2.png

    Screenshot_20210528-103506~2.png
     
    Last edited by a moderator: May 28, 2021
  2. sabre123

    sabre123 Well-Known Member

    Hi Thomas. Can you pls edit your post to show full images instead of thumbnails? It saves ppl a click or a tap.

    Also, indicating the dimensions would be of help. Thanks
     
    RichardE and judy like this.
  3. Thomas40

    Thomas40 New Member

    I have looked at photo options and it appears the photos are in "full" format. However I have posted this from mobile, therefore formatting may be an issue.
    The dimensions I will give approximately as I've only handled the piece briefly (concerned about it's prior history).
    Height: 40-50cm
    Width: 15-20cm
    Weight: below and kilogram (surprisingly lightweight)

    Looks to have been painted many times with various applicants. One looks like varnish and another looks waxy. Clearly there has been an attempt to preserve the mask multiple times. There is some small parts of exposed wood. It is a light color like pinewood.
     
    sabre123 likes this.
  4. 2manybooks

    2manybooks Well-Known Member

    The angle of your first photo makes it difficult to see the face clearly, but the narrow eyes, creases, and exaggerated features remind me of "Hahoetal" masks from Korea.

    https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hahoetal#Mask_construction

    Note particularly the ones on the lower left in this photo:

    [​IMG]
     
  5. all_fakes

    all_fakes Well-Known Member

    I'm kind of thinking Indonesian, for the tourist/import/export trade; not as old as it looks, perhaps weathered by being hung outdoors. Possibly in imitation of the Korean masks mentioned.
    The black interior paint is a trait of that trade, and is a feature not found on masks intended for use.
     
  6. komokwa

    komokwa The Truth is out there...!

    Clearly there has been an attempt to preserve the mask multiple times.....


    not really......just an attempt to show forced age......;

    back...painted black........BALI...


    [​IMG]
    [​IMG]
     
  7. Thomas40

    Thomas40 New Member

    Thankyou very much guys. This has been valuable info. I'll report back to the fellow and advise him to lower his expectations regarding the price of this mask.
     
    komokwa and Any Jewelry like this.
  8. Any Jewelry

    Any Jewelry Well-Known Member

    And lower his expectations regarding the use of the mask.;)
     
    reader, komokwa and Taupou like this.
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