Sogho-vuvi Mask From Gabon
Origin. Gabon
Tribe Name. Mitsogho
Material. Wood
Dimensions. 32 cm
Shipping Method. Colissimo/DHL within 24/48 business hours
This Sogho-Vuvi mask (Gabonese art) is characterized by a minimalist aesthetic and strong symbolic significance. Here is a detailed description of its elements:1. Shape and StructureMorphology: The mask has an oval shape that tapers toward the chin, characteristic of the stylistic traditions of the Ogooué region (Vuvi, Sogho, or Isoko/Mitsogo peoples).Profile and Volume: Views from the side and rear reveal a wooden structure that is deeply hollowed out at the back, designed to conform to or adjust to the wearer’s head during use, featuring lateral perforations through which fastening straps pass.2. Polychromy and PigmentsThe forehead and headdress: The upper part features a contrasting two-tone color scheme, divided between dark tones (black/charcoal) and warmer hues (red ochre/brown).The Face: The lower part of the face and the cheeks are covered with a light patina made from white kaolin, emphasizing the luminous or spectral appearance often sought in these initiation masks.3. Facial FeaturesThe Eyes: The eye sockets are stylized, pierced by horizontal slits that allow for vision, and surmounted by dark, arched eyebrow ridges that frame the gaze.Tears / Scarifications: Dark vertical streaks flow beneath the eyes, evoking tears or traditional ritual scarifications.The Nose and Mouth: The nose is geometric, triangular in shape, and prominent. The mouth, small in size, is delicately sculpted in relief with a subtle or closed smile.4. Materials and WearNatural fibers: Twisted cords and plant fibers (raffia or similar fibers) are knotted on either side and hang below the chin, forming part of the mask’s original adornment.Patina from Use: The wood shows authentic signs of wear, cracks caused by the passage of time, and small holes from wood-boring insects, attesting to its age and ritual history.
Tribe Name. Mitsogho
Material. Wood
Dimensions. 32 cm
Shipping Method. Colissimo/DHL within 24/48 business hours
This Sogho-Vuvi mask (Gabonese art) is characterized by a minimalist aesthetic and strong symbolic significance. Here is a detailed description of its elements:1. Shape and StructureMorphology: The mask has an oval shape that tapers toward the chin, characteristic of the stylistic traditions of the Ogooué region (Vuvi, Sogho, or Isoko/Mitsogo peoples).Profile and Volume: Views from the side and rear reveal a wooden structure that is deeply hollowed out at the back, designed to conform to or adjust to the wearer’s head during use, featuring lateral perforations through which fastening straps pass.2. Polychromy and PigmentsThe forehead and headdress: The upper part features a contrasting two-tone color scheme, divided between dark tones (black/charcoal) and warmer hues (red ochre/brown).The Face: The lower part of the face and the cheeks are covered with a light patina made from white kaolin, emphasizing the luminous or spectral appearance often sought in these initiation masks.3. Facial FeaturesThe Eyes: The eye sockets are stylized, pierced by horizontal slits that allow for vision, and surmounted by dark, arched eyebrow ridges that frame the gaze.Tears / Scarifications: Dark vertical streaks flow beneath the eyes, evoking tears or traditional ritual scarifications.The Nose and Mouth: The nose is geometric, triangular in shape, and prominent. The mouth, small in size, is delicately sculpted in relief with a subtle or closed smile.4. Materials and WearNatural fibers: Twisted cords and plant fibers (raffia or similar fibers) are knotted on either side and hang below the chin, forming part of the mask’s original adornment.Patina from Use: The wood shows authentic signs of wear, cracks caused by the passage of time, and small holes from wood-boring insects, attesting to its age and ritual history.
2 200 €
Period: 20th century
Style: Tribal Art
Condition: Excellent condition
Material: Solid wood
Length: 32 cm
Width: 20 cm
Height: 32 cm
Reference (ID): 1803143
Availability: In stock
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