Description: Lovely African Baule Mask I.Coast approx 14" h by 6" shows old termite treated holes the overall Good condition Additional Information: This mask from the Baule people of the Ivory Coast belongs to a special grouping known as âportrait masksâ. Called ândomaâ by the Baule, portrait are said to portray an honored person of the village who is celebrated during a ceremonial dance known as âMbloâ. 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. There are no holes around the mask (except for two recent holes on the top used for hanging the mask) which means the mask was not wore on the face, but probably has a headpiece or a wall mask.The âMbolaâ dance reflects feminine virtues,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. The refined and finally carved face may be similar to the person for whom the mask was originally carved to represent. The closed eyes and pursed mouth indicate propriety and respect in keeping the eyes downcast with a sense of reserve that a mature woman will cultivate. The slight scarification along the eyes and mouth and on the forehead may be for magical purposes for an aesthetic statement. The costume would have been attached to the mask by cords that was threaded through the holes at the back of the mask. !
Price: 190 USD
Location: New Rochelle, New York
End Time: 2024-02-17T15:58:16.000Z
Shipping Cost: 8 USD
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All returns accepted: ReturnsNotAccepted
Country of Manufacture: Cote d'Ivoire
