Vintage Wum Tribe Carved Wood Mabu Helmet Mask Cameroon Africa Kwifon Society For Sale

When you click on links to various merchants on this site and make a purchase, this can result in this site earning a commission. Affiliate programs and affiliations include, but are not limited to, the eBay Partner Network.

---

Vintage Wum Tribe Carved Wood Mabu Helmet Mask Cameroon Africa Kwifon Society:
$649.00

VINTAGE AFRICAN WUM TRIBE
MABU HELMET MASK FROM
NORTHWEST CAMEROON

Available for purchase isa vintage Wum tribe "mabu" helmet mask from the Grasslands Region of northwestern Cameroon.In all the kingdoms of this region, the mabu (also known as mabwo, mabuh, or mambu)is the "runner's mask" of the influential and feared Kwifon society. The Kwifon was a secret society that collectively ruled the kingdom during the pre‐European era. Members wearing the mabu mask would run ahead of the Kwifon procession when it left the King's palace, warning and driving away all non-members. The mabu would also appear at funerals and memorial services for the dead. It was also used as an executioner's mask. Whoever met the mabu was forced to kneel down so as not to provoke him. To this day, mabu is a mask respected and feared by all.Like all mabu masks, this example appears boldly aggressive and threatening withhighly exaggerated features. It has bulbous jowls that form the cheeks, buggy eyes that appear to pop out of their sockets, protruding lips with filed teeth, an oversized beak-like nose, and an intimidating protrusion that juts out from the brow. The mask has a flat grooved hat and the face is depicted with a beard, which identified the wearer as a Fon (titleholder) and was symbolic of authority.This mask would have been worn on top of the head like a helmet and not on the front of the face. The face would have been covered with fabric and the mask would have been complemented by a floor-length robe trimmed with chicken feathers.This authentic mabu mask measures about 12 1/2" long, 8 1/2" wide, and 9 3/8" tall. It was carved from a dark color wood, but I'm not sure what type (possibly mahogany). I'm including a metal stand that doesn't fit the mask well, if you want it. The stand will need some modification to display the mask properly.I purchased this mask from the estate of a wealthy family that traveled the world and owned many antique African items. I believe it to be from mid-20th century, perhaps earlier. This mask is guaranteed to be a genuine mabu from the northwestern Cameroon region. Please feel free to check my positive response and buy with confidence from a trusted seller.Condition of this Wum helmet mask is VERY GOOD. It has wonderful age patina. It has some chipping to several teeth and the top lip, as well as a few other chips to the edges in various places. The back side has several small chunks in the wood (see photo). Overall, this mabu mask looks fantastic and displays well. It would make a fine addition to any collection. Please take a close look at the many photos I've provided and judge condition for yourself. I'm confident you'll be very pleased with this purchase.If you collect antique African items, particularly masks, don't miss your opportunity to purchase this offering. My Buy It Now price of $649 seems like a fair price for this wonderful piece of African history. So, buy this mask now before someone else beats you to the deal!While you're here, please check out my other listings by clicking on the link below. Whenever possible, I'll be happy to reduce shipping for combined purchases.See my other listings for more great items!

Payment is due immediately after purchase. Virginia residents will need to add 5.3% state sales tax to the final purchase price. E-bay has also started charging sales tax in many other states recently, something beyond my control.For international purchases, the buyer is responsible for all customs fees. The declared value listed on the customs form will be the final selling price of the item. I will not list the item as a "gift" to avoid customs charges.

If you're the lucky buyer of this Wum helmet mask, it will come to you VERY carefully packaged via UPS Ground, USPS Ground Advantage, or Priority Mail (your choice). Shipping will be actual charges from zip code 22980 (packaged weight between 10 and 11 pounds). Use the shipping calculator below to determine exact mailing cost to your location. International buyers will need to message me for a shipping quote. IF YOU DON'T WANT THE METAL STAND, I CAN SHIP THE MASK CONSIDERABLY CHEAPER (JUST LET ME KNOW).

E-bay no longer allows sellers to offer buyers the option of purchasing shipping insurance. I will insure this item at my own expense.

Vintage Wum Tribe Carved Wood Mabu Helmet Mask Cameroon Africa Kwifon Society

$649.00

Vintage Goebel Loriot Wum Dog Figurine Plastic Soft Rubber 6"

$24.94

Vintage Porcelain Angel Icicle Ornaments (2) Holding Stars Signed WUM 8”tall

$10.00

Vintage Porcelain Angel Icicle Ornaments (3) Holding Stars Signed WUM 8”tall

$15.00

Vtg WuM Heinzeller Holzschnitzerei Mini Wood Painted Rabbit Hunter Figure

$24.95

Vintage Handpainted Santa Ornament Finial Style Holding Wreath &Bell Signed WUM

$7.00

Pair Vintage 1980’Unused Russian Folk Art Wum Wicker Basketry Friut Table Basket

$65.00

Pair Vintage 1980’Unused Russian Folk Art Wum Wicker Basketry Friut Table Basket

$65.00