500 Gallery
Timed Auction

Inspired Masterpieces Spring Sale

Fri, May 10, 2024 12:00AM EDT - Thu, May 16, 2024 08:00PM EDT
Lot 126

Dyo Mask, Bwa People, Burkina Faso

Estimate: $3,000 - $5,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$20,000 $1,000
$50,000 $2,500
African Tribal Art: Bwa People, Burkina Faso: Mask representing Dyo, Carved wood and pigments. Late 19th/early 20th century. The mask comes with a custom-made steel display stand.

The Bwa people use art as an aid in maintaining balance between their lives and the powerful forces of nature, called Dyo. These masks were worn at important rites and events. At funerals, their presence was required for the safe passage of the dead between this realm and the next.

The mask imagery, a combination of geometric abstract patterns and animal/bird/human features, are based on local references to the relationships of lineages or clans to the Dyo.

A comparable mask appears in AFRICAN ART MASTERPIECES, George Nelson Preston, Page 111, Plate 46.

51H; 62H on stand (inches).

Private Collection, Massachusetts, Private Collection, New York

Condition

Good condition with signs of use and age; worn patina; wood cracks and desiccation; some tribal repairs made with iron bands/cleats.

NOTE: If documentation is not listed, the lot is sold without documents.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact the Gallery with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices from our gallery. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer.

Available payment options

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Amex
  • Diners
  • Discover
  • JCB
  • Union Pay

500 Gallery offers in-house shipping for most items. Shipping cost will be listed on your invoice. Please inquire ahead of the auction if you're unsure as to potential shipping costs or to retrieve a shipping estimate/quote.