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128
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BAMILEKE, Western Cameroon.
See original version (French)
128
-
BAMILEKE, Western Cameroon.
See original version (French)
Estimate €3,000 - €4,000
Voluntary lot
Description
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 amongst the most sought-after mask forms in African art. It has also exerted a major influence on numerous artists, from the early 20th century right 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 him with this object, shortly after he had been involved in settling a major estate in Tours.
The special bond the sculptor had with this piece takes on a unique significance when one realises that it was one of the few objects to have been saved from the flames during the fire at his studio and home on the night of 4 to 5 June 2016.
In a symbolic gesture, Michel Audiard is now putting this mask back on the market, thereby bringing his all-consuming passion for antique objects from faraway lands to an end. This gesture also reflects a desire to pass on heritage, allowing this work to continue its journey whilst recalling the traditional function for which it was 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 the sculptor Michel Audiard, Rochecorbon.
Expert: Christian NJIENSI
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Ref. : 0017050 - 563
Pictures modified on 09/23/2026 at 12:42 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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