Masque Kpeliye - Sénoufo - Elfenbenskusten

Superb mask Kpeliye from the Sénoufo culture, originating from Côte d’Ivoire, this work elegantly embodies one of the aesthetic peaks of classical West African art. With great finesse in execution, this anthropomorphic facial mask captivates with the perfect balance of its volumes, the softness of its lines and the remarkable quality of its sculpture.

The elongated face with half-closed eyes expresses calm, mastery and spirituality, while the stylized horns and the lateral geometric elements reinforce its symbolic dimension. The discreet scarifications and the deep, silky and bright patina testify to an ancient ritual use as well as to prolonged handling over time. Among the Sénoufo, Kpeliye masks were used in initiation ceremonies of the Poro society, accompanying rites of passage, spiritual teaching and community celebrations.

The extreme sobriety of the composition, allied with the silent power of the gaze, gives this piece an exceptional sculptural presence. Its refinement evokes the great classical Sénoufo corpora sought for their formal purity and their almost contemporary balance.

Presented on a high-end personalized base that showcases the work perfectly, this mask comes from an old French private collection, adding to its historical interest and prestige. A rare, elegant and timeless piece, intended for demanding connoisseurs and high-level African art collectors.

Presentation of our expertise house

Based in Belgium, our expertise and sales house specializes in African and ethnographic art. A leading seller on Catawiki for over 8 years, we enjoy a solid reputation and a track record of several hundred sales with a nearly 100% satisfaction rate.

We regularly assist with liquidations, successions and dispersals of collections, in collaboration with individuals and families in Belgium and neighboring countries. Our approach is rigorous, transparent and accessible, with many sales offered without reserve price.

Some pieces that have passed through our hands have joined international private collections and, for some, museum institutions.

All of our collections are visible year-round at specialized fairs and exhibitions, but also through the online catalog of our gallery Héritage Galerie:
https://art-africain-traditionnel.com/en/

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