Native American Inuit Eskimo Antique Dance Mask 1900
$950.00
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From our recent Acquisitions Across America – a fresh find from a California estate
This finely hand carved and hand painted Alaskan Inuit antique wooden dance mask is a superb example of Eskimo culture. It’s character and creation was inspired by native cultural vision and tradition. It is a fine 120 year old hand-carved example that would be a provocative accent to the most discerning collection.
Measurements: Large 17.5 inches long and 13 inches at widest
The Purpose of Inuit Masks
In the Inuit Culture masks are largely used for dancing in religious ceremonies or festivals. The dancing and religious ceremonies were performed for the pleasure and enjoyment of both the ones on looking as well as the performers. These dancing ceremonies had various meaning.
The Inuit people have maintained for many years a yearly cycle of ceremonies and festival celebrations which included Arctic nights in storytelling, singing, and dramatically spectacular masked feats and performances. The reason for these events is to solicit spiritual guidance. The Intuit peoples dancing ceremonies also build a sense of unity within their community and a sense of cooperation. Many songs and dances are in particular about success in hunting- a vital survival activity.
About Inuit Masks
Inuit (Eskimo) masks each have their individual story and song to correspond to its meaning. Masks were inspired by visions and tradition. Inuit masks were carefully hand carved from locally sourced materials such as spruce or cottonwood as this example and were sometimes embellished with hand painting and rabbit fur also seen on this mask. In the Inuit culture, every mask was intricately fashioned and created always having an immense amount of meaning to its creator and Inuit people.
Circa 1900
Fine old patina.
Provenance: Old California Estate
Lifetime guarantee of authenticity: All of our Native American and Asian works of art come with our lifetime authenticity guarantee.
Item Details
- Dimensions: N/A
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(802) 279-7601
(802) 279-7601
(802) 279-7601