Sumba mask sculpture in grey sandstone and cowrie shells 32 cm

Measurements to know before finding a place for it:

• Total height, base included: 32 cm
• Width: 10 cm
• Depth: 5 cm
• Weight: 1.86 kg
• Package: 32.5 x 13.5 x 9 cm

Its materials and the way it is crafted:

• Material: dense and granular stoneware, color specific to the stone block
• Color: gray
• Decoration: white cowrie shells glued in a pyramid on the forehead, cowrie headband all around
• Face: pierced eyes, straight nose, and heart-shaped mouth in relief
• Manufacturing: hand-carved, each piece is unique
• Base: rod and base in black lacquered iron

The white of the cowrie shells contrasts sharply with the stoneware: it is a decorative piece that is meant to be looked at rather than to complete a set. On a wooden bedside table, it warms up a room with plaster walls; in a niche or on a shelf, it takes pride of place in a group of smaller pieces, in a bohemian spirit.

Where to place it and how to maintain it:

• Where to place it: entryway console, sideboard, bedside table, or alcove
• Dusting: soft cloth or dry brush, no water or liquid cleaner
• Cowrie shells: brush around them and never on top of them, the glue ages
• Do not apply force to the shells on the edge of the pyramid
• Keep any shell that falls off, it glues back on very well
• Indoor use