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IROQUOIS FALSE FACE MASK.

Currency:USD Category:Firearms & Military Start Price:150.00 USD Estimated At:300.00 - 500.00 USD
IROQUOIS FALSE FACE MASK.
The False Face Society was a medicinal society in the Haudenosaunee, and they were particularly known for their wooden masks. Masks like this were worn by members of the society when conducting rituals to counter various ailments. Interestingly, membership in society was limited to only men; however, the leader of the society was always a woman. This mask has a carved wooden body with a mostly black finish. The eyes are made of circular copper. The hair is likely from a horse. The cloth straps appear to be cotton and/or flax. The round ornaments at the top are likely cotton over medicinal herbs with some insect damage. Construction and style indicate that this mask has some age, but an exact period is always difficult to assign. CONDITION: mask shows wear and some oxidation to the unfinished wood. Copper eyes are tarnished. Hair shows light wear. (02-22947/BF). $300-500.