Mask - Côte d’Ivoire

This mask is part of the Baule/Goli mask tradition.
Key features are:
1. elongated face shape 2. strongly defined long nasal bridge. 3. finely carved inlaid tattoos, 4. a finely cut hairstyle.

This mask has a very powerful design; the scarifications on the cheeks and temples are deep and consistently cut. The eyes are half-closed, almond-shaped — typical Baule!
The hairstyle is exceptionally well executed, and the mouths and teeth convey strong expression.
The mask has a dark, deep patina with wear around the cheekbones and edges around the mouth.
The presence of the original leather straps is crucial, and they are almost always replaced when resold. You rarely see them still intact.