Makonde Terracotta Helmet Mask

Makonde helmet mask, worn by young men during initiation ceremonies. Terracotta. From one of two villages situated between Moda and Chipanha, Mozambique, this extremely rare helmet mask was purchased by an Australian UN Peacekeeper in 1995 from its original owner. Old when it was bought, although the exact age has not been determined, we believe it to date to the early 1900's.  See Sotheby's two previous terracotta helmet mask sales - Lot 298 (19th May 2000) and Lot 78 (25th May 1999).

Measurements: diameter at base 23 cm, height 14.5 cm