Q: Here is what I assume is an antique, turn-of-the-century, racist, decorative mask from Japan. Just like Black Americana pokes fun at ethnic features, so does this mask. Beyond what might be the typical big lips, the creator went further to highlight nose-hairs, and crooked eyes to boot. The nose appears wider and more broad than an Asian feature, and in that way, also seems to strongly suggest Black heritage. Uniquely signed on the reverse in two colors… I’ve yet to find a translator. Its made of a hardwood, and appears to have aged patina within its shellac coating. Its a bit smaller than a typical mask… and fits my…
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Strange art mask
Q: I acquired this mask decades ago. I was told at that time that it’s South American, but they knew nothing more than that. It is carved of wood, covered with pebbles (?), then painted. It has a dark brown or black undercoat which shows slightly where it’s worn. I look forward to the benefit of your opinion. Martin, 710 A: I like to refer to these as “art masks.”
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South Pacific Surprise
Q: I found this in an antique store. They say its from Africa but it looks closer to New Guinea to me. I can’t find anything online. Could you help me out. It is approximately 9″ wide X 10″ high to edge of weaving. l collect almost any masks that are fairly old and not tourists models. I also carve NW Native Masks. Scott, 709 A: You are absolutely right about New Guinea, but I’m not sure whether it is authentic or a strictly for tourists item. Let’s be positive and go with authentic. Definitely New Guinea. I have seen PNG masks of this size that have woven reed borders…
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Sri Lanka has rich traditions of masquerade
Q: I have recently owned some masks on an antique fair. I am not an expert so I am very curious if they are original, hand made, etc. Could you please tell me what their origin is? I am sending photos of one of the masks. I would be grateful for your help. A: This mask is from Sri Lanka, a small island nation with a rich tradition of masquerade.
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Old half-mask from Bali
Q: I recently purchased this mask at a non-internet estate auction as part of an auction lot. Size is 6 1/4″ h x 5 1/2″ w. Light elegant wood with a true antique feel (wavy patina). The red paint might be storage splatters. I collect well-crafted, antique ethnographic items. Jerry, 707 A: Your excellent hi-res photos suggest this is a very old Balinese mask used for the Topeng dance drama that has been performed there for hundreds of years.
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Japan’s most popular mask
Q: I have a Hannya mask that was given to me by my mother years ago. I am not sure as to its authenticity or age. It looks like one of the nicer masks I have seen and I believe it is made of wood. I am guessing it is a reproduction but really have no idea. Any information would be appreciated. Thanks. Tom, 706 A: The mask of Noh theater character “Hannya” is collected and reproduced a great deal, probably more than any other.
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Rare, old Indian mask
Q: I have had this huge mask for a while and always thought it was from South India (possible Kerala), but recently a friend told me it looks Nepalese to him? With the larger nose possibly a Garuda? I think it may be a form of Shiva as well. Also I am having a heard time dating it. It has for sure been worn and lots of wear and few layers of paint. Ant ideas? Josh, 705 A: You have a wonderful mask here. It is probably from somewhere in northeastern India.
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Much larger Congo mask
Q: Just wondering if you could kindly identify this mask for me. I came across it whilst in Africa. It came off a truck that was doing a trans-Africa tour approx 30 years ago. I believe it came from West Africa. It is wooden with a rafia beard and the size including beard is 137cm (wooden mask height only is 68cm), the width is 39cm, so it is quite big. Paul, 704 A: When it rains it pours Congo masks. This one is indeed big. Masks this large are made by African tribes occasionally.
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More from the Congo
Q: I’d love your thoughts on this mask I recently bought at auction; it’s around 30cm in height and made from a fairly light weight wood. Could it be from Congo I wonder? Many thanks in advance. Nicky, 703 A: Yes, it could be from the Congo, and possibly from the same area as the Lwalu mask that just came in a few hours ago. So what I said previously applies to your mask as well.
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Interesting mask from the Congo
Q: This mask was left in our home when we purchased it. We are not collectors but are very intrigued, and who knows, this may start our hobby. Can you tell us something about it? Thank you!!! Machelle, 702 A: I think you are lucky. This is a good example of a used* mask from the Lwalu people from the West Kasai region of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Here masks are used for various rites, plus brief performances to bring good luck before the hunt.
