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Step 1
Search online for African import suppliers or auctions. Many importers sell African masks online and in physical stores. In addition, sign up with importers and suppliers to receive emails about inventory updates and discount coupons.
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Step 2
Purchase African mask replicas from discount retailers such as Marshall's if you are more concerned about the look than the authenticity. These masks are usually made outside of Africa in a mass production setting in countries such as China, and are less expensive than an authentic mask.
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Step 3
Buy African masks from an art gallery for authentic pieces not replicas. Check the authenticity of any piece you purchase by having it appraised by an expert in that region's art. In some cases, sellers offer for a warranty. Gite Galleries in Houston, Texas sells African art online in addition to the gallery.
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Step 4
Attend a live art auction with the aid of a certified African art appraiser. These masks are presented as old, rare and unique pieces, so they are expensive. An appraiser makes sure you purchase a mask that is worth the price.
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Step 5
Take a trip to African to purchase an African mask first-hand or purchase from Africans at American open-air markets. In these settings haggling is accepted and often welcome. Start your initial offer at half the amount you wish to pay.
Comments
lotusmasks said
on 8/11/2009 This is all great information on purchasing quality African art.
Please visit www.lotusmasks.com to see all of our authentic African masks. We travel to West Africa at least once a year to pick out all our favorite pieces.