Beautifully carved African wood mask originating from the Baule people of the Ivory Coast. This piece dates to the middle of the 20th century, circa 1940s - 1960s, and exhibits nice wear and patina, overall.

Size: Height ~ 14.5" / Width ~ 8" / Depth ~ 3.25"

This mask is of the variety known as "Mblo" and represents a portrait of a male member of the tribe in ceremonies. It is a fine example, with delicate, realistically stylized features, partially closed eyes (a sign of respect), a vertical scarification on the forehead, an abstracted beard, and an elaborate stylized coiffure.

The mask has a fine patina, both inside and outside. There are areas of wear to the raised surfaces where the smooth wood can be seen through the original dark paint. The painted surfaces have light encrustations of red powder (t'koola) and other substances, and the back of the mask shows darkening from skin oils and wear (please see photos).

Baule carvers are most concerned with depicting accurate human features in their masks. Through apprenticeship, the young man learns the proper aesthetics of Baule sculpture, which include smooth patina, balanced proportion, clear lines and well rounded asymmetry. Arched eyebrows and eyes nearly closed, these features of Baule are critical for it is by looking at the gaze of the mask that one can perceive it as someone with a presence. The Baule belong to the Akan peoples that inhabit Ghana and Côte d'Ivoire. This mask is in excellent ethnographic condition with the following noted: Several light scratches to the front facial surfaces ... unpainted areas at the front edges where raffia was attached using the drilled holes ... a tight, stable hairline crack (possibly repaired) to the top of the coiffure, running vertically and seen clearly on the back, not very visible on the front unless with close inspection ... wear and chips to the back of the rim, especially towards the chin.

Wear, with an encrusted and glossy patina overall.

This work will be a quality addition to any collection of African art or sculpture and look great in any Tribal, Ethnographic, Eames Era, or Modern - Contemporary decor.

The price of this piece includes insured shipping by UPS Ground within the United States. We are happy to hear from you by e-mail if you have any questions or need more information.