This Toma mask is a gorgeous piece of artwork. The details in the red pigmented protruding eyes and geometric carved striations of the coiffure are just a couple beautiful examples of the craftsmanship it took to create this piece. The mask measures 17 inches tall and weighs 3 pounds. There are minor imperfections – please inspect photos. The stand is not included but can be purchased for an additional fee.
Sale!
Type of Object | Face Mask |
---|---|
Country of Origin | Guinea |
Ethnicity | Toma, Thoma |
Material | Wood, pigment, leather, metal |
Approximate Age | Unknown |
Height (Inches) | 17" |
Width (Inches) | 8.5" |
Depth (Inches) | 5" |
Weight (Pounds) | 3 lbs |
Overall Condition | Good with minor imperfections. |
Tribe Information
About the Toma People
“The Toma people of Guinea (known as Loma in Liberia) number 200,000 and live in the high-altitude rain forest lying across the Guinea-Liberia border. Artistically, their reputation rests on their Landai mask which has an articulated crocodile jaw and a flattened, stylized human face. This mask symbolically devours Poro society candidates at the end of their initiation period, after which they are revived as full members of this sodality. Some rare figures exist which are kept within each household.”
Source:
Baquart, Jean-Baptiste. The Tribal Arts of Africa. New York: Thames and Hudson Inc. 1998. Print.