Description
Tribal Mask is a powerful and evocative suiseki by Italian artist Franco Mauri, masterfully selected for its strong figurative presence and emotional resonance. Carved by time and the elements, this sandstone (arenaria) stone rests on a finely carved Koto wood daiza, which enhances its sculptural quality while grounding it in traditional Japanese display.
Viewed from the front, the stone clearly reveals the form of a mask, as if gently laid face-up for contemplation. Its surface naturally defines eye sockets and a mouth, worn and softened by erosion, yet undeniably human in expression. The result is a piece that appears not only shaped by nature, but also infused with a quiet spiritual identity, echoing the ancestral power and mystery of tribal iconography.
The stone’s texture and coloration add to its presence—earthy, subdued tones suggest aged material, while soft contours evoke the passage of time and ritual. There’s a sense of dignity and memory, as if the stone itself were a relic of a lost culture or a silent witness to ancient rites.
What makes Tribal Mask so striking is its balance between abstraction and recognition. It never feels artificial, yet it unmistakably resembles a human face—capturing the essence of a mask that is both artifact and symbol. It opens a space for reflection on identity, ancestry, and the human connection to the earth.
The Koto wood daiza completes the composition with subtle warmth and grace, framing the piece like a ceremonial platform. Together, stone and base create an object of presence—sculptural, meditative, and profound.
Tribal Mask stands out as a suiseki that bridges natural beauty and symbolic storytelling. It invites viewers into a silent dialogue with the past, offering a deeply emotional and introspective experience. A true testament to the poetic vision of Franco Mauri.
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