West African Polychrome Helmet Mask

Description

West Africa, possibly Cote d'Ivoire or Liberia, Dan/Kran or related peoples. A large carved wood helmet mask with blackened surface and remains of red and white pigment. The face is modeled with narrow almond-shaped eyes, a long triangular projecting nose, and broad curving cheek elements, with dotted pigment decoration across the surface. The reverse is hollowed for wear, with the mask now mounted on a custom metal stand.

Size 17 1/2" L

Ex-Lacy Gallery, Melrose Place Gallery. Collected prior to 2008, ex-Lacy Gallery (Vanna & Lee Lacy collection), Los Angeles CA. Lacy Gallery was founded upon six decades of collecting ethnographic and fine art. Lee Lacy was a distinguished Hollywood producer of iconic TV series and commercials.

Condition

Age cracks, pigment wear, surface abrasions, losses, and old wear throughout; mounted as shown.

Buyer's Premium

25%

West African Polychrome Helmet Mask

Lot 0299

Estimate $3,000-$4,000Jun 25, 2026, 1:00 PM EDT

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$800

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Ethnographic Art Jewelry and Antiquities

Jun 25, 2026 1:00 PM EDT

Brea, CA, United States

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