Sold - Le Masque d’Or

Sold. Retained in the archive and no longer available.

A sculptural face in 18ct yellow gold, with heavy-lidded eyes, a long central ridge and fans of open filigree. Le Masque d’Or measures 6 × 2.5cm, weighs 8.83g and bears a 750 hallmark.

Heritage & provenance

The design has affinities with West African gold-mask jewellery, including Akan, Asante and Baule traditions in present-day Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire. Piasa catalogued a closely comparable 18ct filigree pendant.

Historic Akan masks and mask-shaped pendants formed part of ceremonial life and could express rank, ancestry and protection. UNESCO reference records examples associated with rulers and social elites.

The attribution is comparative. No document connects this pendant to a named maker, owner, community or event. Its date is undetermined, probably the 20th century or later; it is not presented as an antique ceremonial object.

Craft & condition

Fine wires form symmetrical fans across the forehead and lower face. Polished applied elements shape the brows, eyes, nose and side bars. Three small scrolls occupy the pointed forehead panel; their intended meaning is undocumented.

Surface marks, patina and small irregularities remain visible in the photographs.

Details

• Status: Sold out
• Metal: 18ct yellow gold
• Hallmark: 750
• Weight: 8.83g
• Dimensions: 6 × 2.5cm
• Type: Mask pendant
• Technique: Open filigree with polished applied elements
• Probable origin: Ghana or Côte d’Ivoire; comparative attribution
• Date: Undetermined; probably 20th century or later
• Condition: Pre-owned, with surface wear and patina visible

Cultural attribution is comparative, not documentary. The photographs show the archived piece.