Despite its appearance and fine beadwork, this mask has not been vetted as authentic; it was probably made to be sold.

Mask 18 is in good condiion. This mask was photographed on a temporary stand.

These masks, with beads carefully embroidered onto cloth take the form of an important royal icon, the elephant, with its long trunk and large ears. The patterns on the front and back panels suggest another royal icon, the leopard. The display of wearing these richly embellished masks and other regalia at court ceremonies was the best evidence of the wealth of a Bamileke kingdom.

RETURN TO BAMILEKE BEADED ELEPHANT MASK ARCHIVES PAGE (ALL SOLD)

GO TO BAMILEKE BEADWORK PAGE

GO TO MASKS AND HEADS PAGE

RETURN TO BEADWORK PAGE

GO TO BAMILEKE BEDS PAGE

GO TO BAMILEKE STOOLS PAGE

GO TO ANIMALIA EXHIBITION PAGE

GO TO AFRICAN ANIMALS PAGE

GO TO NEW ADDITIONS PAGE