Lot 45A
West Africa, Ivory Coast, Yaure Tribe, ca. last quarter 19th to first quarter 20th century. A refined Baule portrait mask (kple kple variant or mblo type) carved with a serene, introspective facehighly arched brows, downcast eyes, narrow nose, and delicate lips convey a sense of composure and idealized beauty. The mask is crowned by a dramatic crest of twin hornbill birds (bala), a symbol of fertility, communication with the spiritual world, and ancestral presence. The fine geometric scarification patterns engraved into the forehead and temples reflect the Baule aesthetic ideals of order, symmetry, and grace. A small metal tack may be inserted at the base for stabilization or attachment during performance. Size: 6.25" W x 16.75" H (15.9 cm x 42.5 cm)
These masks were traditionally worn by male dancers in masquerade ceremonies, including entertainment festivals (mblo), or as spiritual intermediaries in goli rituals. The double bird motif underscores the duality and harmony valued in Baule cosmology.
Exhibited at Oberlin College, Allen Memorial Art Museum, October 3 - December 10, 2002, catalogue p. 7, illust. #1 (right)
Provenance: Ralph T. Coe Center for the Arts, Santa Fe, New Mexico, USA acquired from Taylor (Tad) Dale Gallery, Santa Fe, NM
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#196227
- Condition: Minor imperfections on the beaks of each bird and minute flea-bite on the left edge of the mask.. Old screw hook on reverse. Some of the finest patina I have seen on any African mask.
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