Baoulé Mask - Baule - Côte d'Ivoire
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 300 - € 350
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Description from the seller
Origin. Ivory Coast
Tribe name. Baoulé
Material. Wood
Dimension. H 45. W 17 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h; open
This decorative mask, originating from the Baoulé people in Ivory Coast, is a classic and refined example of a Mblo mask.
The face shows an expression of absolute serenity. The eyes are almond-shaped, half-closed, symbolizing wisdom, restraint, and an inward gaze. The nose is fine and straight, and the mouth, small, reveals teeth—an stylistic detail recurrent in Baoulé art that adds character to the portrait.
Geometric relief patterns can be observed on the cheeks and at the temples, as well as on the forehead. These are ritual scarifications (Kla) which, in Baoulé tradition, were regarded as marks of beauty and social identity.
The upper part is topped with a complex coiffure, carefully sculpted. It appears in the form of a segmented dome with vertical striations, bearing witness to great artisanal skill and meticulous attention to detail in the representation of traditional head ornaments.
The Mblo Mask
Mblo masks are not cult or religious objects in the strict sense (they are not used to communicate with spirits). They belong to a social and artistic dimension:
Unlike many African masks that depict spirits or deities, Mblo masks are often portraits. They are carved to honor real people, often chosen for their physical beauty or wisdom.
The Spectacle (Gbagba): These masks are used during Gbagba dances, popular entertainments where the mask is worn to honor a person present in the audience or to celebrate an ancestor. The accompanying dance is intended to be elegant and graceful, reflecting the dignity of the subject represented.
Ideal of Beauty: The symmetry and refinement of this mask's features illustrate the Baoulé aesthetic ideal: a balance between realism and idealization, emphasizing distinction and restraint.
This type of mask is a centerpiece of West African wood sculpture, valued for its timeless elegance and its ability to capture an individualized human presence.
Origin. Ivory Coast
Tribe name. Baoulé
Material. Wood
Dimension. H 45. W 17 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24-48h; open
This decorative mask, originating from the Baoulé people in Ivory Coast, is a classic and refined example of a Mblo mask.
The face shows an expression of absolute serenity. The eyes are almond-shaped, half-closed, symbolizing wisdom, restraint, and an inward gaze. The nose is fine and straight, and the mouth, small, reveals teeth—an stylistic detail recurrent in Baoulé art that adds character to the portrait.
Geometric relief patterns can be observed on the cheeks and at the temples, as well as on the forehead. These are ritual scarifications (Kla) which, in Baoulé tradition, were regarded as marks of beauty and social identity.
The upper part is topped with a complex coiffure, carefully sculpted. It appears in the form of a segmented dome with vertical striations, bearing witness to great artisanal skill and meticulous attention to detail in the representation of traditional head ornaments.
The Mblo Mask
Mblo masks are not cult or religious objects in the strict sense (they are not used to communicate with spirits). They belong to a social and artistic dimension:
Unlike many African masks that depict spirits or deities, Mblo masks are often portraits. They are carved to honor real people, often chosen for their physical beauty or wisdom.
The Spectacle (Gbagba): These masks are used during Gbagba dances, popular entertainments where the mask is worn to honor a person present in the audience or to celebrate an ancestor. The accompanying dance is intended to be elegant and graceful, reflecting the dignity of the subject represented.
Ideal of Beauty: The symmetry and refinement of this mask's features illustrate the Baoulé aesthetic ideal: a balance between realism and idealization, emphasizing distinction and restraint.
This type of mask is a centerpiece of West African wood sculpture, valued for its timeless elegance and its ability to capture an individualized human presence.
Details
Number of objects
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Baule
Country of Origin
Côte d'Ivoire
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Baoulé Mask
Height
45 cm
Width
17 cm
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