African Hemba Wood Soko Mutu (Chimpanzee Human)
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Description
**Originally Listed At $500**
Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Shaba District, Hemba tribe, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden monkey mask known as a soko mutu, or "chimpanzee human," that appears at funerals and may also serve protective functions. The mask features ovoid eyes, a downward-pointing nose, and a broad, grinning mouth, all covered in lustrous brown patina. Drilled suspension holes along the peripheries enable this mask to be attached to one's face or a larger dance costume. Size: 3" L x 6.5" W x 9.75" H (7.6 cm x 16.5 cm x 24.8 cm); 13.5" H (34.3 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: ex-old private Ohio, USA collection, acquired in the 1970s; ex-private Belgian collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#179719
Central Africa, Democratic Republic of Congo, Shaba District, Hemba tribe, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden monkey mask known as a soko mutu, or "chimpanzee human," that appears at funerals and may also serve protective functions. The mask features ovoid eyes, a downward-pointing nose, and a broad, grinning mouth, all covered in lustrous brown patina. Drilled suspension holes along the peripheries enable this mask to be attached to one's face or a larger dance costume. Size: 3" L x 6.5" W x 9.75" H (7.6 cm x 16.5 cm x 24.8 cm); 13.5" H (34.3 cm) on included custom stand.
Provenance: ex-old private Ohio, USA collection, acquired in the 1970s; ex-private Belgian collection
All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.
We ship worldwide to most countries and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience.
#179719
Condition
Old repairs along mandible with metal wire. Losses to verso of mandible and along cheeks, with abrasions and light earthen deposits, otherwise in great condition. Nice preservation to overall form.
Buyer's Premium
- 27.5%
African Hemba Wood Soko Mutu (Chimpanzee Human)
Estimate $200 - $300
2 bidders are watching this item.
Shipping & Pickup Options
Item located in Louisville, CO, usOffers In-House Shipping
Payment
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Auction Curated By
Owner/Executive Director, Antiquities & Pre-Columbian Art
PhD. Art History, Director, Fine & Visual Arts
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