This is the rating and price for Baule Wood Helmet Mask Bo Nun Amuin

Description : Western Africa, Cote d'Ivoire, Baule (Baoule) people, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A marvelous and massive Baule helmet mask known as a bo nun amuin (gods of the bush) or amuin yasua (men's gods) carved from mocha brown-hued wood. The fierce vizard presents a lengthy rectangular snout with broad nostrils, a raised nasal bridge, and two enormous, almond-shaped eyes with heavy lids. Large gritting teeth are incised on either side of the boxy muzzle. Supported by a thick, cylindrical neck, the ferocious visage is capped by a pair of curved horns resting above two petite ears. A horizontal slit is carved into the bottom of the snout. Boasting a lustrous sheen, this mask is a fabulous example from the Baule peoples. Size: 11 W x 19 H (27.9 cm x 48.3 cm), 27 H (68.6 cm) on included custom stand. According to the Agnes Etherington Art Center in Kingston, Ontario, Associated with masculine concerns and the wilderness space of the bush, [bo nun amuin masks] are worn in dance to protect the community from harm, to honour important deceased men and past dancers at funerals, and to discipline women and younger men. Although not considered to be a literal representation of an animal, a bo nun amuin's horns and toothy jaws suggest bush creatures like buffalo and crocodiles. The connection to the bush is further reinforced by the performer's costume, which is composed strictly of raffia, never cloth. In performance, a bo nun amuin masker displays a vigorous dance style sometimes accompanied by aggressive behaviour, which, by demanding immediate sacrifices, striking an audience member for wrong behaviour, or threatening the audience, serves to police and protect community interests. Because of its wild, sacred nature, only men can view a bo nun amuin mask. Its heavy, animal-like features and its protective, disciplinarian role provide a striking contrast to Baule portrait masks, which are performed in front of the entire village for entertainment and are an important component of 'women's dances'. Provenance: private New York, New York, USA collection, ex-private northeastern USA collection All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back. A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids. We ship worldwide and handle all shipping in-house for your convenience. #162672
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Estimate (low-high) : 1800 USD-2700 USD It's free to register now to view!

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