Baule Tam-Tam Handle, Côte d’Ivoire Wood, fibre, fine dark patina. Height: 30 cm (without stand). Mounted on a custom-made iron stand. Provenance: Old Dutch collection, acquired in the 1970s on the Amsterdam tribal art market; since then in the same collection. This rare and finely carved tam-tam handle shows a female head of great refinement, with high crested coiffure supported by two struts bound with old fibre, delicately scarified cheeks, and closed, meditative eyes. The surface is enriched with incised geometric motifs and a smooth, lustrous patina of deep brown tone, testifying to ritual handling and age. Baule tam-tam handles are prestige objects associated with music, dance, and ceremonial display. The elegance of the features, together with the strong sculptural balance, reflects the Baule ideal of beauty (bla), combining refinement, serenity, and formal strength. Dating: Early to mid-20th century (circa 1920–1940). The patina, fibre remnants, and provenance strongly support this period. Custom iron stand included.