A Baule mask (masque de rejouissance)

A Baule mask (masque de rejouissance), Ivory Coast, Sakassou region. Signs of ritual use; Certificate of origin and provenance. Incl. stand

"Baule masks, with their refined elegance and meticulously carved features, are more than mere objects of aesthetic admiration; they are embodiments of the community's ideals and spiritual beliefs. The Mblo portrait masks, in particular, represent a confluence of personal identity and cultural values, capturing not just the likeness but the moral character of the individuals they honor. The smooth surfaces, high foreheads, and downcast eyes convey serenity, wisdom, and self-control—qualities highly esteemed in Baule society. In contrast, the Goli masks, with their bold forms and dynamic presence, serve as intermediaries between the human and spirit worlds, invoking protection and guidance during critical community events. Together, these masks illustrate the Baule's ability to navigate the realms of both the sacred and the secular, creating art that resonates with beauty and profound cultural significance."

Source: Susan Mullin Vogel "Baule: African Art, Western Eyes" (1997).

Height: 34 cm without stand
Weight: 2 kg incl, stand