Lot 504: Sammie Nicely Mask Sculpture in Black & Yellow w/ Raku

Samuel Louis Nicely (Tennessee, 1947-2015) stoneware sculpture depicting an African-style mask with protruding facial features and braided or curly hair with dotted, yellow-glazed raku pottery mount, 1988. Signed and dated en verso and inscribed "TN." 11" H x 11 1/2" W x 4" D. Note: "As he expanded his skills as an artist, Nicely was drawn to more traditional and ancestral ways of creating. Most of his ceramics were pit-fired, a process that has historically been used by African tribes and First Nations people." (Source: Rebecca Proffitt, "Nicely Done: Continuing the Work and Mission of Sammie L. Nicely," Appalachian Places, Center of Excellence for Appalachian Studied and Services, East Tennessee State University, April 5, 2022) Biographical note: "Samuel Louis Nicely was an artist and educator who embraced his cultural heritage as an African American man from Appalachia. Born in Russellville, Tennessee, he developed a love for the arts at an early age and went on to earn a B.S. in art education from Middle Tennessee State University and to study at The Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts in Gatlinburg. Nicely co-founded the From Africa to Appalachian Foundation and was the Artist in Residence at the Reece Museum in 2014." (Source: Reece Museum, East Tennessee State University) His works are in the collections of the National Afro-American Museum and Cultural Center, Fisk University, Georgia State University, and the Reece Museum at East Tennessee State University.

CONDITION: Excellent condition. Tip of nose is glued to face, likely inherent.