Bozo Puppet Mask, Mali

Description of Significance:

The Bozo people of Mali are renowned for their expertise in fishing and boating, and their annual catch is a significant export for the country. The name "Bozo" derives from the Bambara word for straw house, in reference to the temporary fishing camps where they reside. In addition to their fishing skills, the Bozo are also known for their colorful puppets. These sculptures feature moving parts and are used during harvest and fishing celebrations. Originally, this puppet mask was created with attached ears that could be moved by the puppeteer during dances or processions along the Niger River.

Origin:

• Handcrafted for ceremonial use in Mali

Dimensions (in inches):

• Depth: 9"
• Width: 12"
• Height: 18" 

Materials: 

• Wood 
• Paint and stain
  

Display:

• This piece does not include a base. 
• The iron base in the photos can be included for $150 + additional shipping. Please send us an email if you are interested the a base.
• A wire is included on the back of the mask for easy wall hanging.
• Please let us know if you are interested in a different display option.

About Antique African Art:

Hemingway Gallery regards antique African art as the best artistic expression of aesthetic beauty and storytelling throughout the known history of art. Aside from artistic taste, African art accrues value in different ways than other genres, including use in ceremonial settings as well as age. 50 years can be regarded as old or antique when it comes to wood masks and totems. Hemingway Gallery provides both authoritative insight and context into each artifact in the collection, possessing and readily exhibiting direct, intimate knowledge of the source and pedigree. The goal is to preserve and curate one-of-a-kind artifacts of importance while creating a platform for the acquisition of spectacular unique pieces within financial reach.

Our Pricing:

Hemingway Gallery ethically sources all the fine art in our collection. Our pricing correlates directly to the asking prices of artists, artisans and art dealers in the various African countries we collect from and the costs of importing the artwork to the U.S. We need to change the idea that artists should be paid pennies for their fine art just because it comes from Africa. Paying a fair price in Africa  is our number one priority and our pricing reflects that. 

Shipping:

• Shipped with FedEx Ground: $65
• A declared value is included in the shipping so a signature is required for delivery.
• We ship around the world! Our website is still new and is not yet processing automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the mainland USA (including Hawaii and Alaska).

Further Information:

Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information on this piece.