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Three very well carved and evocative Chinese wooden masks, all dating from the mid part of the first half of the 1900's (i.e. circa the 1930’s), with a different type / colour of wood used in each one. All have super-expressive mirthful faces - but quite different ‘expressions’ - especially their inlaid eyes, and all have a beautifully aged overall patina. Lovely scroll-work above the forehead on the mask on the left, who looks like a bit of a theatrical ‘jester’, or with his bulging eyes and big grin may be someone who has just been astonished seeing something, or someone, he likes. Script / character markings on the upper back-side state, when read right to left, "Precious Treasure". (Although today much Chinese script has been 'simplified' and is printed and read western style from left to right, before the founding of the People Republic of China in 1949 it was written right to left.) The center mask is of a wise old sage with a topknot predominate on his otherwise bald head, and has an intriguing attractiveness which radiates a joyful and happy persona. While the mask on the right, Confucian in appearance, particularly attention to detail has been paid in the rendition of his beard. Unfortunately there has been a break at the bottom sometime during its life span and a repair has been made there, and a small piece of wood is missing. Still, this does not detract from the attraction of the piece. Neither of the other two mask have any repairs, just some age cracks here and there. When mounted all together - as a 'set' on a wall - they look particularly charismatic, and tend to complement one another with a striking and attention-getting allure. On the other hand, each stands out with its own virtues when placed alone also. From left to right in the main photo the mask sizes are 26cm x 14cm (approx. 10.25in x 5.5in): 37cm x 16.5cm (approx. 14.5in x 6.5in): 32cm x 18.25cm (approx. 12.5in x 7.25). We would prefer to sell them as a set of three, and the best value for money for a customer would be to buy as a set, but we would consider selling individually for the right price. So please ask if interested in only one. However one chose to display them they would be sure to bring joy to your home. See more masks here - https://warpandweft.club/portfolio-item/masks/
price:
Price upon request. Please ask.
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