The “Masque de mariage” Yaure from the Bouaflé region of Côte d’Ivoire belongs to the refined sculptural tradition of Yaure face masks, which are known for their exceptional balance between abstraction and naturalism. The mask typically presents an oval, slightly elongated face with a highly polished surface that emphasizes its serene and controlled expression. The facial features are reduced to essential forms: half-closed, almond-shaped eyes beneath delicately arched brows, a narrow, straight nose, and a small, closed mouth that reinforces an impression of calm restraint. Incl stand. In many Yaure examples from the Bouaflé area, the composition is enriched by finely carved scarification patterns on the cheeks or temples and by a carefully structured coiffure or crest-like hairstyle that rises above the head. In some cases, this upper section include stylized animal or abstract motifs, signaling the presence of spiritual forces (yu spirits) that the mask is believed to mediate. The surface is often finished with a dark, lustrous patina that enhances the sense of depth and sacred gravity. Although often labeled in the art market as a “marriage mask” (masque de mariage), Yaure masks are more broadly associated with ritual performances of social regulation, funerary ceremonies, and masked dances of the Je/Lo associations. In these contexts, the mask functions as a mediator between the human community and the spirit world, restoring balance after death or during key transitions in communal life. Within Yaure artistic production, especially in the Bouaflé region, such masks are recognized for their extreme formal refinement and their emphasis on emotional containment. Rather than expressive drama, they embody an ideal of inner equilibrium, moral order, and spiritual authority. Reference list (selection) Alain-Michel Boyer, “The Yaure of Côte d’Ivoire: Making the Gods Dance,” Fondation Barbier-Mueller Mask Museum AFCI021, Yaure Lo Mask documentation, Je ceremony funerary use, Côte d’Ivoire Smithsonian National Museum of African Art, Yaure mask object records, ritual mediation and stylistic traits Barbier-Mueller Museum, Arts of Côte d’Ivoire: Yaure traditions, masks and spiritual function Catawiki auction archives, Yaure masks from Bouaflé region, stylistic analysis and ceremonial context This description was created with the help of our local informant Bakari Bouaflé and additionally with the aid of AI. Despite careful individual verification of the information provided by our informant, errors or inaccuracies may occur in the description due to the use of artificial intelligence. M*A*Z*1*3*3*4*9* The seller guarantees and can prove that the object was obtained legally. The seller was informed by Catawiki that they had to provide the documentation required by the laws and regulations in their country of residence. The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object. The seller will provide all provenance information known about the object to the buyer. The seller ensures that any necessary permits are/will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer immediately about any delays in obtaining such permits.