A 19th century West African Guinea ritual helmet mask, also known as the Bundu mask, originates from the Mende culture. This is one of the few types of African masks worn exclusively by women. The mask is used by the secret Sande or Bundu womens society during initiation rites, when young girls are accepted into adulthood. Every detail of the mask embodies the ideals of feminine beauty and virtue in Mende culture. The mask features a high, smooth forehead, downcast slit eyes, and a small, delicate mouth, all characteristic of the Mende aesthetic. The elaborate coiffure is composed of five vertical, blade like projections, while the base of the mask is defined by prominent horizontal neck rings representing prosperity and the ripples of water from which the spirit emerges. The interior is hollowed for wear, and the reverse bears a white painted inscription identifying it from the private collection. It is presented on a wooden display stand. Provenance: From the Munich, Germany, collection of Wilfried Kragler. Antique African Tribal Art, Masks, Folk Art, and Collectibles.

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