BAMILEKE, Western Cameroon. - Lot 128

Lot n° 128
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Estimation :
3000 - 4000 EUR
BAMILEKE, Western Cameroon. - Lot 128
BAMILEKE, Western Cameroon. Eroded wood, pigments. With its frontal and vertical composition, its powerful expressionist quality, and the exceptional artistic solutions it reveals, this mask, known as the “Tsema’bu,” ranks among the most sought-after mask forms in African art. It has also exerted a major influence on numerous artists, from the early 20th century through to contemporary art. It is therefore easy to understand why the famous sculptor Michel Audiard fell in love with it at first sight when, a very long time ago, a prominent art dealer from Tours presented this object to him, shortly after he had handled a major estate in Tours. The special relationship the sculptor had with this piece takes on a unique significance when one considers that it was one of the few objects saved from the flames during the fire that destroyed his studio and home on the night of June 4–5, 2016. In a symbolic gesture, Michel Audiard is now putting this mask back on the market, thereby bringing an end to his all-consuming passion for antique objects from faraway lands. This gesture also reflects a desire to pass on this legacy, allowing the work to continue its journey while recalling the traditional function for which it was originally intended. This is a mask commonly known as the “Batcham Mask,” belonging to the “Msop” brotherhood, an ancient and powerful society whose high-ranking initiates, were the true pillars of political and religious power in Bamileke country. H. 147 cm. (damage and missing parts, restorations). Provenance: Collection of sculptor Michel Audiard, Rochecorbon. Expert: Christian NJIENSI
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