Baule Portrait Mask African , Cote dIvoire,African Start Price USD 265.00 Current Price USD 265.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Thursday, July 17, 2008 End Time Thursday, July 24, 2008 Location Denver, CO See more about 'Baule Portrait Mask African , Cote dIvoire,African' Description Baule mask African Artifact. Cote d'IvoireType of Object: Face Mask Ethnic Group: Baule Country of Origin: Cote d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) Materials: Wood, encrustation, and pigments. Approximate Age: Mid to Late 20th Century Dimensions: Height is 13.5 inches Overall Condition: Good. Damage, Repair: chip in the central braid at the top Additional Information: Elaborate hairstyle, scarification on bridge of nose, forehead, and next to eyes. Patina has white pigment intermixed on face. Back shows evidence of wear and use. Traditional Baule elements found on this mask include the almond shaped eyes, a long nose, the mouth with teeth, elaborate hairstyle and keloid scarifications, and a serene face. The encrusted surface still has traces of white pigment . This mask probably falls into a special grouping known as portrait masks. Portrait masks are said to portray an honored person of the village or a personal ancestor who is celebrated during a ceremonial dance known as Mblo. It is an aesthetic performance in which this beautifully carved mask would be worn with a multicolored costume and danced in the most graceful manner by either the person it represents or a relative. The costume would have been attached to the broad collar of the mask by cords that were threaded through the holes at the back of the mask. The Mblo masquerade reflects feminine virtues including graceful movements and elegant dancing steps and celebrates her beauty. These masks are danced to entertain during days that the Baule do not work and they will also appear to honor important visitors to the village. They also dance to celebrate the ancestor or the person represented by the mask. This well used, and classic mask recalls the artistry of the Baule artists of the past. The refined and well-carved face may be similar to the person for whom the mask was originally carved to represent.The semi-closed eyes and pursed mouth indicate propriety and respect in keeping the eyes downcast and a sense of reserve that a mature woman will cultivate.This is a fine example of Baule masks with superb patina and an expressive face. Recommended Reading: For more information see ART OF AFRICA by Kerchache et al, and Susan Vogel, BAULE. AFRICAN ART WESTERN EYESI have examined this piece and agree with the description. Niangi Batulukisi, Ph.D. **W1759** All content, including pictures, Copyright Africa Direct Inc., 2006 Add Us To Your Favorite Sellers! Please visit our About Us page. SquareTrade © AP6.0 PesaMember Place a Bid!