Shop a rare 23″ vintage Bidjogo bull mask from Guinea-Bissau. Authentic Vaca Bruto wood headdress featuring real cattle horns and a rich dry patina. Buy now!
Large 23” Bidjogo Bull Mask – Guinea Bissau 58 cm
$695.00
Description
The mask represents a buffalo ( ja-re). The eyes are made of pieces of glass, and real buffalo horns are attached. It is a traditional artifact from the Bidjogo people of Guinea-Bissau. These masks are typically used in religious ceremonies, dance performances, and initiations. These masks bull motif represents strength and vitality, often symbolizing power and protection. Crafted from wood, the mask is usually adorned with intricate carvings, feathers, and sometimes animal hair, making it a striking and symbolic piece of African art.
Shipping & Care Instructions
Due to the age, size, and delicate nature of this 23 -inch artifact’s mixed-media elements (including fragile organic fibers, leather, and horn attachments), this piece will be professionally packed. It is double-boxed and surrounded by custom cushioning to ensure absolute safety during transit. Full insurance and tracking are included with shipment.
Care & Preservation Guidelines
To preserve the beautiful, authentic vintage patina and structural integrity of this mid-century Bidjogo piece, please observe the following care instructions:
- Display Location: Keep the sculpture out of direct, intense sunlight to prevent the aged hardwood from fading or developing deeper stress fractures.
- Climate Control: Place the statue away from direct paths of heating vents, air conditioners, or humidifiers. Drastic shifts in humidity can dry out or distort vintage organic cords and leather attachments.
- Cleaning: Do not apply any chemical cleaners, liquid polishes, or water to the surface. To clean, simply use a soft, entirely dry microfiber cloth or a delicate brush to gently clear away dust from the wood crevices and mixed-media ornaments.
- Size: 23″ H x 14″ W x 13″ D
- Materials: Native African Hardwood, Real Horns, Organic Fibers
- Display: Heavy and exceptionally well-balanced; mounts beautifully flush to a feature wall or stands dramatically on a flat surface or metal pedestal (stand not included).
Additional information
| Weight | 20 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 25 × 15 × 15 in |
| Region | |
| Culture | Lobi People |
| Origin | Burkina Faso, West Africa |
| Estimated Period | Mid-20th Century (Circa 1950s–1970s) |
| Material | Carved Hardwood, Animal Horn, Glass Trade Beads, Leather, Fiber Cord |
| Height | 24 inches (61 cm) |
| Condition | Excellent vintage condition. Wood shows beautiful natural aging and minor stable cracks consistent with genuine ritual use. All mixed-media attachments are structurally intact. |








