Carved wooden mask with fiber hair/beard
Description

Unknown origin. It was in a house we bought with a few contents. Probably meant as a wall decoration. Hollow on top, with a hole through the top back of the piece and a rope loop for hanging.

Dimensions

Approximately 16 inches long, 7-8 inches wide. Flattish back, perhaps 5 inches deep overall.

Acquired from
Other
For sale
Yes
Answered within 4 days
By David U.
Jul 04, 16:54 UTC
Fair Market Value
$80 - $150 USD
Insurance Value $0 USD
What does this mean?

Hello, this item is a hand-carved wooden mask featuring a full fiber beard and mustache, likely made from raffia or a similar organic material. The facial features are expressive, possibly depicting a wise or comedic elder, with stylized brows and a serene yet animated expression. Based on the carving style, rounded head form, and naturalistic execution, this mask is most likely a 20th-century decorative interpretation of traditional East Asian or Oceanic motifs, rather than an ethnographically functional ritual mask. The looped rope and hollow back indicate it was meant for wall hanging, most likely as a folk-inspired or tourist-market piece.

While not of ritual or ceremonial use, masks like this are appreciated for their craftsmanship and decorative appeal. The exaggerated features and organic beard treatment give it charm and visual impact, appealing to collectors of global folk art, particularly within the category of Asian tribal-style decor. Given the materials, condition, and size (approx. 16 inches long), the fair market value is estimated between $80 and $150 USD.

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