Item description for Vintage Etched Totem Owl Tribal Mask Brooch Pin Carved Handcrafted

This is an unusual brooch or pin with an intricate scrimshaw like design in the form of a tribal totem or mask that reminds me of an owl. The primitive handmade mask appears to be an etched bone or some type of man-made material or plastic composite set atop a copper or brass colored metal backing. It is very dimensional. The face is highlighted with round, red beads, could be cinnabar, coral or a hard vintage plastic. It measures approximately 3 inches tall and 2 ¼ inches wide. It is a substantial piece and weighs 1.6 ounces on my postage scale, which converts to 45.36 grams.

Many tribes believe that when a person donned certain masks for specified ceremonies or rituals, the actual spirit of the animal depicted entered the individual wearing it. The Owl is commonly seen in Mask form and also represented in Totem Poles. Many European, Eastern and African countries all have cultures or mythical traditions that give spiritual significance to the owl. In one of the photos I have listed there is an insert of an African Mask so you can see the similarities in the design, that mask is shown only as an example, it is not part of the sale.

The brooch is in great vintage condition as you can see by the enlarged photographs. There is patina forming on the back, I will leave any polishing up to you if you so desire. It has a strong and secure roll over clasp closure. Please look at the pictures as they are part of the description and show the details better than I can describe.

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