Baule - Côte d'Ivoire

Ivory Coast Baoulé Wood Height: 420 mm Width: 175 mm Depth: 170 mm This anthropomorphic mask comes from the Baoulé people, a major ethnic group established in the central region of Ivory Coast. Within their rich artistic corpus, this object belongs to the category of portrait and entertainment masks, traditionally called Mblo (or Ndoma). Origin and stylistic characteristics Baoulé art is globally renowned for its pursuit of harmony, finesse, and symmetry. This type of mask synthesizes the aesthetic canons and moral values of this society: The expression of interiority: The high, open forehead, the intensely arched eyebrows, and the eyes stretched, almost closed, evoke dignity, reserve, and inner peace (Blolo). The ceremonial coiffure: The hair is sculpted with extreme care, forming a high crest finely striated and topped with a pinnacle or geometric ornament. Among the Baoulé, the coiffure is an indicator of refinement and high social rank. The ritual scarifications (Ngole): Relief motifs embellish the face, especially at the center of the forehead (often in the form of small rectangles or bars) and near the lips. They mark initiation stages and access to cultural maturity. The attribute of wisdom: The presence of a small outgrowth or a stylized beard under the chin refers to the authority of elders and the wisdom gained over time. Use in Baoulé society Unlike the region’s sacred and secret masks (such as those of the Bonu Auen cult), which inspire awe and are forbidden to women, the Mblo mask is a tool of social cohesion and public rejoicing. Entertainment and festivals: It is used during entertainment dances (Gbagba or Mblo), organized for the funerals of notables, visits of dignitaries, or major village celebrations. A personalized homage: This type of mask is commissioned to honor a living member of the community, most often a woman, renowned for her physical beauty, dancing talents, or moral virtues. The mask is considered the spiritual double or the idealized portrait of that person. The mechanics of the dance: To perform, the dancer ties the mask with leather straps or cloth. Inside, a horizontal wooden crossbar serves as a biting bar: the dancer clenches it between the teeth to stabilize the sculpture during the rapid movements of the choreography. A wide costume of fibers and loincloths, fixed along the border surrounding the face, completely conceals the wearer’s body. Symbolic meaning In Baoulé country, plastic beauty is inseparable from moral goodness. This mask does not seek to reproduce an individual's exact features realistically, but to materialize their integrity and grandeur of soul. Through the regularity of its lines, the symmetry of its shapes, and the shine of its dark patina, it reminds the community of the importance of order, personal discipline, respect for elders, and the perpetuity of traditions in the face of world changes. This mask is representative of Baoulé art, with a balance between forms and volumes and finely sculpted details. Fast and protected shipping. Parcels are sent with a tracking number. Delivery in 1 to 3 days in France by Chronopost, 2 to 5 days across the European Union by Chronopost International. Delivery by Colissimo International to the rest of Europe and worldwide. We speak english. Mask african art Afrikanische Maskenkunst arte de máscaras africanas arte delle maschere africane statue african art Arte de estatuas africanas arte delle statue africane Afrikanische Maskenkunst Máscara de estatua de galería de arte africano

Schätzpreis:€150

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