Description : African Tribal Art: Baule People, Cote d'Ivoire: Portrait Mask (Mblo), finely carved and finished wood with a dark patina. The face features beautiful scarification marks between the brows, at the corners of the mouth and on the cheeks. At the hair line, delicate incisions delineate two rows of headbands, with the closely-spaced patterning extending up into the coiffure. Three stylized animal horns adorn the crown. The beard is rendered simply, in a similar style to the hair. At the back rim of the mask, incised holes for attachment of costume elements are worn smooth from use. Late 19th/ early 20th century.
The mask comes with a custom-made display stand.
The broad forehead and downcast eyes are classic features associated with intellect and respect in Baule aesthetics. The expression is one of intense introspection.
Such masks appeared as the final sequence of an operatic public entertainment known as Mblo. Mblo performances consist of a succession of dances that escalate in complexity and importance, culminating ultimately in tributes to the community's most distinguished member. Individuals honored in this way are depicted by a mask that is conceived of as their artistic double or namesake.
Dimensions: 15.5H x 8W x 5D, 22H on stand. (inches)
Provenance: Private collection.
NOTE: Please inspect the photos, which supplement the written description and show the condition of this lot.
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Provenance: Private Collection, Massachusetts, Private collection, New York
Dimensions: See Description
Prix: 0.00 USD🔓Accès libre sans carte bancaire.
Estimations(basse-haute) : 1000 USD-1500 USD🔓Accès libre sans carte bancaire.
À propos du lot
n° 26 Titre : Portrait Mask Dimensions : See Description Provenance : Private collection. Notes :
NOTE: If documentation is not listed, the lot is sold without documents.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact the Gallery with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices from our gallery. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer. Condition report : Good condition with mild abrasions, wood desiccation, small cracks and evidence of use and age.
Note: Please inspect the photos, which supplement the written description and show the condition of this lot.
NOTE: If documentation is not listed, the lot is sold without documents.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact the Gallery with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices from our gallery. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer. 500 Gallery, Salle de vente
, Franklin, US🔓Accès libre sans carte bancaire. Titre de la vente : African Tribal Art Date de la vente : 19/05/2022🔓Accès libre sans carte bancaire. Référence de l'enchère
: Live Sale
