SKIN COVERED JANUS HELMET MASK, CAMEROON

Origin:   Cross River Region, Likely Ekoi  (Provenance: Acquired from an old San Francisco Estate of Primitive art)

Period/Date: Likely first quarter of the 20th century

Materials:  Wood, Antelope Skin, Charcoal Oil Paint

Dimensions:  Height 17.25" (44 cm),  Width 10 5/8"  (27 cm) 

Description:  Here's a janus face secret society skin covered mask surmounted by four heads.    The wooden substructure of this example is carved with careful detail.  The mask is in good condition considering its age retaining much its skin intact.  The skin is stretched and secured with wooden pegs.   There is wear and loss to areas of the charcoal paint.  This aggressive and  brute mask is presented on a custom wood stand.