Zoomorphic Face Mask
Item
Accession Number
2024.2.
Title
Zoomorphic Face Mask
Ethnic Group
Baule
Subject
Mask|Ceremonial|West Africa
Country
Côte d'Ivoire
Date
Early 20th Century
Medium
Patinated wood
Format
H x W x D: 14 1/4 in x 5 1/2 in 2 5/8 in (36.195 cm x 13.97 cm x 6.668 cm)
Description
The zoomorphic Baule mask is patinated to create a dark surface. The facial features are softly carved, with a slender nose, small closed mouth and large closed eyes. Three lines wrap around the crest of the forehead, forming the coiffure. Atop the head of the mask are two large, ribbed horns angling slightly inwards at the tips. The mask may represent the Kpan Pre, which signifies the senior female in Baule ceremonies. The Kpan Pre is part of a group of masks called the Goli, which function as family.
Type
Face Mask