Baule Portrait Face Mask, Ivory Coast Africa SUPERB Start Price USD 862.00 Current Price USD 862.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Friday, November 07, 2008 End Time Sunday, December 07, 2008 Location Denver, CO See more about 'Baule Portrait Face Mask, Ivory Coast Africa SUPERB' Description Title: Baule Wooden Portrait Face mask, Cote d'Ivoire, African Type of Object: Face maskEthnic Group: BauleCountry of Origin: Cote d'IvoireMaterials: wood, pigmentApproximate Age: Mid 20th centuryDimensions: Height is 11.5 inchesOverall Condition: Good Damage, Repair: General wear, repair to top right corner of the back. Additional Information: This mask from the Baule people of the Ivory Coast probably falls into a special grouping known as portrait masks. Called ndoma by the Baule, they are said to portray an honored person of the village 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 Mbola dance 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. 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 hair is presented by a small transverse and patterned element. The shiny and lustrous surface and color are meant to represent the healthy and beautiful woman it is said to portray. The 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. The reserved and enigmatic facial expression, the acute attention to detail and the high quality of carving all indicate that this is a classic example of Baule Art and a major addition to any collection whether specializing in the art of the Baule or a new collector simply taken by this finely carved mask.I have examined this piece and agree with the description Niangi Batulukisi, Ph.D. **014309** 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!