An important and very old Janus helmet mask covered in antel - Lot 129

An important and very old Janus helmet mask covered in antelope hide of monumental dimensions, featuring a dark patina male face associated with death on one side and a light-colored female face symbolizing life on the other. Antonio Ségui had a particular taste, among others, for Ejagham (Ekoï) crests, and this exceptional mask in its category was undoubtedly the most archaic and venerable in his collection. Ejagham, Nigeria Wood, leather, nails, pigments, fibers, hair, pearl, visible accidents and small cracks, very fine old patina. Height: 43cm Provenance: Private collection, Germany Private collection, Germany, 1996 Sotheby's, New York, November 21, 1996. n°119 Antonio Segui Collection, Paris Transmitted by descent