Baule People, Côte d'Ivoire: A finely carved and finished mask with a dark patina. Wood, brass upholstery tacks, kaolin pigment, 19th/20th Century.
The anthropomorphic face features beautiful scarification marks between the brows and on the temples. Five brass upholstery tacks add interest to the hairline and brow. Delicate incisions create geometric patterning of the coiffure. Two stylized animal ears accentuate the face, showing that the mask represents a spirit. The beard is rendered simply, with white kaolin clay defining its adjoining triangles.. At the back rim of the mask, incised holes for attachment of costume elements are worn smooth from use.
DIMENSIONS: 13.5"H x 9"W x 8"D
PROVENANCE: Private collection.
CONDITION: Good condition with minor wood losses, scuffs and other indications of handling.
The anthropomorphic face features beautiful scarification marks between the brows and on the temples. Five brass upholstery tacks add interest to the hairline and brow. Delicate incisions create geometric patterning of the coiffure. Two stylized animal ears accentuate the face, showing that the mask represents a spirit. The beard is rendered simply, with white kaolin clay defining its adjoining triangles.. At the back rim of the mask, incised holes for attachment of costume elements are worn smooth from use.
DIMENSIONS: 13.5"H x 9"W x 8"D
PROVENANCE: Private collection.
CONDITION: Good condition with minor wood losses, scuffs and other indications of handling.