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  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn

    Common Mistakes When Buying Masks: How to Avoid Disappointment

    June 19, 2024 / No Comments

    Collecting masks can be an incredibly rewarding experience, offering a glimpse into various cultures and artistic traditions. However, it’s easy to make mistakes, especially for those new to this fascinating world. Let’s explore some common errors collectors make and how to avoid them, ensuring your collection is both authentic and valuable. 1. Buying Fake Masks One of the biggest pitfalls is purchasing masks that are not authentic. Replicas and fakes are common, particularly in markets where demand is high. It’s crucial to research and buy from reputable dealers. Look for certificates of authenticity and don’t be afraid to ask detailed questions about the mask’s provenance. 2. Not Researching the Origin…

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    Paula Diaz

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    This photograph taken on March 24, 2022 shows a "Ngil" mask of the Fang people of Gabon ahead of its auction in March 2022. Photo by Pascal Guyot/AFP via Getty Images

    Elderly Duo Discover Their ‘Garage Sale’ African Mask Was a $4.4 Million Jackpot! Now, They Want Their Fair Share!

    November 3, 2023

    Time for a reality check: The Truth Behind Your Treasured Mexican Mask

    August 4, 2023

    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn,  History

    The Value of Modern Masks: Debunking Common Myths

    June 17, 2024 / No Comments

    When it comes to mask collecting, there’s a common misconception that only antique masks hold value. However, this myth deserves to be debunked. Modern masks can be just as valuable, both as works of art and as cultural artifacts. Join us on this journey to discover why modern masks deserve a prominent place in your collection. Contemporary Art in Modern Masks Art is a continuous expression of culture, and modern masks are a testament to this. Contemporary artists create masks that reflect not only past traditions but also current influences and realities. This gives each piece a unique and fresh value, making it a living work of art. Artists like…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Why You Probably Shouldn’t Buy That African Mask (But We Know You Will Anyway)

    August 15, 2023

    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023
    This photograph taken on March 24, 2022 shows a "Ngil" mask of the Fang people of Gabon ahead of its auction in March 2022. Photo by Pascal Guyot/AFP via Getty Images

    Elderly Duo Discover Their ‘Garage Sale’ African Mask Was a $4.4 Million Jackpot! Now, They Want Their Fair Share!

    November 3, 2023
  • This photograph taken on March 24, 2022 shows a "Ngil" mask of the Fang people of Gabon ahead of its auction in March 2022. Photo by Pascal Guyot/AFP via Getty Images
    Africa,  Collecting,  Discover & Learn

    Elderly Duo Discover Their ‘Garage Sale’ African Mask Was a $4.4 Million Jackpot! Now, They Want Their Fair Share!

    November 3, 2023 / No Comments

    Well, folks, here’s a lesson on why garage sales might need more scrutiny! A French grandma, 81, and grandpa, 88, found an old African mask while tidying up their holiday house. They sold it to a local antique dealer for a mere $157, thinking it was just another trinket. Imagine their surprise when they spotted their ‘trinket’ in the news, auctioned off for a whopping $4.4 million! The mask wasn’t just any mask; it was a rare Fang mask with a backstory straight from an adventure novel. Grandpa’s grandpa, who had been a colonial governor in Africa in the early 20th century, brought it home from Gabon. This mask had…

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    Paula Diaz

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    African mask with no mouth

    January 7, 2016

    Kota reliquaries are often in mask collections

    March 2, 2019

    Kuba Bwoom mask from the DRC

    May 19, 2018
  • Africa,  Collecting,  Discover & Learn

    Why You Probably Shouldn’t Buy That African Mask (But We Know You Will Anyway)

    August 15, 2023 / No Comments

    Oh, so you’ve caught the exotic decor bug, have you? Before you splurge on that “authentic” African mask to add a dash of je ne sais quoi to your living room, let’s talk about the few (or many) reasons why that might not be your best idea. 1. The Historical Baggage First off, let’s be clear: African masks aren’t just fancy wall decorations. Each mask carries the weight of history, culture, and ritual significance. By buying one without understanding its origins, you’re essentially telling your guests, “I have a deep appreciation for beautiful things I know nothing about. 2. Reproduction Galore! Authenticity? More like au-thent-ish. Thanks to the global demand…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Hard to recognize East African

    September 7, 2014

    Nice Bwa Mask

    May 5, 2016

    Baga Simbondel headdress

    October 28, 2020
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn,  Travel

    Traditional vs. Authentic Masks: Understanding the Nuance

    August 8, 2023 / 1 Comment

    In the world of mask collecting, words matter. Two terms that often get used interchangeably, but carry distinct meanings, are “traditional” and “authentic.” While both terms evoke a sense of cultural significance and historical depth, they represent different facets of a mask’s story. Let’s dive into the nuances that set them apart. Traditional Masks: A Cultural Reflection When we talk about “traditional” masks, we’re referring to masks that are deeply rooted in the culture of a particular region or community. These masks: Are crafted by local artisans, often using techniques passed down through generations. Represent characters, myths, or stories indigenous to that culture. May be used in local festivals, dances,…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023

    “Unmasking the Hilarity: The Wacky Upsides of Starting a Mask Collection”

    July 25, 2023
    This photograph taken on March 24, 2022 shows a "Ngil" mask of the Fang people of Gabon ahead of its auction in March 2022. Photo by Pascal Guyot/AFP via Getty Images

    Elderly Duo Discover Their ‘Garage Sale’ African Mask Was a $4.4 Million Jackpot! Now, They Want Their Fair Share!

    November 3, 2023
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn,  Mexico

    Time for a reality check: The Truth Behind Your Treasured Mexican Mask

    August 4, 2023 / No Comments

    Greetings, mask fans! Today, we’re embarking on a journey that’s going to shake up your a little bit. Now, we are sorry for the inconvenience but that Mexican mask that you love so much could be fake! Oh, was that too fast? ok picture this: You’ve got this beautiful Mexican mask hanging on your wall. You love it. You’ve told all your friends about it. You’ve spun tales of its ancient origins, of indigenous people dancing under the sun, the mask’s vibrant colors reflecting the fiery spirit of the celebration. You’ve imagined it surviving fires, enduring battles for independence, and witnessing centuries of history. Well, brace yourselves, because we’re about…

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    Paula Diaz

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    Saving Face: Top Tips for Maintaining Your Mask Collection

    July 19, 2023

    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023

    Why You Probably Shouldn’t Buy That African Mask (But We Know You Will Anyway)

    August 15, 2023
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn

    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023 / No Comments

    Hello fellow mask enthusiasts! Today, we’re delving into a fascinating topic that’s sure to make you rethink everything you thought you knew about mask collecting – artificial aging. And to add an extra layer of intrigue, we’re exploring this concept through the lens of the vibrant and lively masks of Guatemala. So, buckle up and get ready for an exciting journey! Artificial aging, also known as artificial maturation or accelerated aging, is a process that simulates the long-term effects of aging on materials in a shorter period. It’s like a time machine for objects, fast-forwarding them into the future without the need for a DeLorean or a flux capacitor. This…

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    Paula Diaz

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    “Unmasking the Hilarity: The Wacky Upsides of Starting a Mask Collection”

    July 25, 2023
    This photograph taken on March 24, 2022 shows a "Ngil" mask of the Fang people of Gabon ahead of its auction in March 2022. Photo by Pascal Guyot/AFP via Getty Images

    Elderly Duo Discover Their ‘Garage Sale’ African Mask Was a $4.4 Million Jackpot! Now, They Want Their Fair Share!

    November 3, 2023

    The Fascination of Native American Masks: Unraveling History, Artistry, and Cultural Wisdom

    July 13, 2023
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn

    “Unmasking the Hilarity: The Wacky Upsides of Starting a Mask Collection”

    July 25, 2023 / No Comments

    Hello, fellow mask enthusiasts! So, you’ve stumbled upon our mask collecting blog and you’re wondering, “Why on earth should I start collecting masks?” Well, let me enlighten you with the wise words of someone who’s asked themselves this question a thousand times. The Coolest Hobby: First off, you have to admit it’s a fantastic conversation starter. Imagine being at a party and someone asks about your hobbies. Do you really want to be the thirteenth person to mention jogging? Or would you rather casually say, “Oh, I collect exotic masks from around the world”? Trust me, you’ll have the room’s attention faster than you can say ‘Noh mask’! Face Your…

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    Paula Diaz

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    The Fascination of Native American Masks: Unraveling History, Artistry, and Cultural Wisdom

    July 13, 2023

    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023

    Time for a reality check: The Truth Behind Your Treasured Mexican Mask

    August 4, 2023
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn,  Displaying

    Saving Face: Top Tips for Maintaining Your Mask Collection

    July 19, 2023 / No Comments

    Are you sitting on a treasure trove of cultural masks but aren’t quite sure how to keep them in their prime? Well, you’re in luck! Today, we’re diving into the world of preservation, because trust me, there’s nothing sadder than a mask losing its charm. First off, let’s set the stage with a quick fact: masks are more than just pretty face coverings. They’re nuggets of history, carriers of cultural heritage, and every chip, every color, every thread has a story to tell. So, how about we keep those stories alive, huh? Let’s start with rule numero uno – keep ’em clean, but be gentle! We’re dealing with delicate materials…

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    Troy

    You May Also Like

    Guatemalan Masks: A Vibrant Exception to Artificial Aging

    August 1, 2023

    The Fascination of Native American Masks: Unraveling History, Artistry, and Cultural Wisdom

    July 13, 2023

    Time for a reality check: The Truth Behind Your Treasured Mexican Mask

    August 4, 2023
  • Collecting,  Discover & Learn

    The Fascination of Native American Masks: Unraveling History, Artistry, and Cultural Wisdom

    July 13, 2023 / No Comments

    From the icy landscapes of Alaska to the arid plains of Arizona, the diverse tapestry of Native American cultures has yielded an array of striking and profoundly meaningful artifacts. Of these, perhaps none capture the imagination quite like Native American masks. These artifacts are more than mere objects; they are conduits of an ancient heritage, an intimate dialogue between past and present, between humanity and the cosmos. Here’s why owning one of these incredible pieces is a treasure trove of cultural wealth, and if you’re fortunate enough to possess one, count yourself truly lucky! The Artistic Allure of Native American Masks The first striking aspect of Native American masks is…

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    Paula Diaz

    You May Also Like

    “Unmasking the Hilarity: The Wacky Upsides of Starting a Mask Collection”

    July 25, 2023

    Time for a reality check: The Truth Behind Your Treasured Mexican Mask

    August 4, 2023

    Traditional vs. Authentic Masks: Understanding the Nuance

    August 8, 2023


Quiz - Test Your Mask Knowledge

Click Here Take The Quiz

Mystery Mask Value Code

A - high value*

B - collectible*

C - decorative art

D - low value

* A and B do not always imply higher dollar value. Most masks get a C or D, however I usually don't post them.

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