Preliminary identification
Photo reference
4 uploaded photos
Overview
An intriguing, hand-sculpted papier-mâché bust featuring a surreal, bird-like masked face painted in vibrant primary tones. This highly expressive piece of folk art captures the whimsical, experimental spirit of the late 1960s counterculture movement.
Story
On November 8, 1968, artist Nance Lehman finished this striking, surrealist bust. Created during a year of global social upheaval, its theatrical, bird-like mask reflects the era's fascination with identity, performance, and psychological exploration.
Maker / Origin
Nance Lehman appears to have been an independent studio artist or skilled craftsperson working in the late 1960s. While not a household name in major galleries, Lehman's work displays a sophisticated understanding of form, texture, and theatrical character design typical of the period's bohemian art communities.
Condition & Value
The exterior paint and papier-mâché structure are in remarkably good condition with minimal flaking. The interior shows age-appropriate yellowing of the paper tape, minor adhesive degradation, and oxidation on the metal staples, which is expected and confirms its vintage. This original patina supports its value.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.