Hello Farah,

Thank you for your appraisal inquiry with MeArto. The item presented appears to be a metal sculpture depicting a mold of the death mask of Haitian painter Hector Hyppolite (1894 - 1948).

As noted in the description, the item is attributed to Jason Seley (American; 1918 - 1983). Seley did produce a bronze sculpture of Hyppolite's death mask in 1948. However, there are a couple of details that differ from the known Seley sculpture. Within Seley's sculpture, the face is set up higher on the rod and the pedestal block is not inscribed. This work (possibly silver or bronze) features the face at a lower height and is crudely inscribed to the base. The inscription mis-spells Hyppolite's name.

This is not to say the work is not by Seley. The base may have been added to an authentic work. I encourage to to look closely for a signature to the metal reading "SELEY." Seley is known to sign his works. Please look for additional marking to the metal. It may effect the value. The estimate provided is based on recent auction estimates and results of signed Seley bronze sculptures of comparable dimensions.

Thank you and please stay safe and healthy.