Baule Double Face Ceremonial Dance Mask Ivory Coast

Date: before 1965

Geography: Côte d'Ivoire

Culture: Baule peoples

Material: Wood

Dimensions:  heigh: 38cm, width: 17.5cm

Classification: Wood-Sculpture

Product condition: minor damage (see photos) 20% discount from original price

The mask is characteristic of the Baule tribe from Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast) in West Africa. Baule masks are known for their intricate designs and are often used in various rituals and ceremonies. The double face design is typical of their artistic style, symbolizing the duality of human nature or the presence of spiritual entities.

Here are some details about this type of mask:

Origin and Significance

- Tribe: The Baule people, one of the largest ethnic groups in Côte d'Ivoire, are known
for their rich artistic traditions.
- Purpose: These masks are used in various ceremonies, including initiation rites,
harvest festivals, and funeral rituals. They are believed to have spiritual significance
and are thought to embody ancestral spirits or supernatural beings.

Features of the Baule Double Face Mask

- Design: The double face design is unique and symbolic. It often represents the concept of duality in nature, such as the balance between the material and spiritual worlds.
- Material: Typically carved from wood and sometimes adorned with other materials
like metal, beads, or paint. 

- Aesthetic: Baule masks are known for their refined, symmetrical features, elaborate
hairstyles, and serene expressions. The masks often display a high level of
craftsmanship, reflecting the skill of Baule artisans.

Use in Ceremonies

- Dance Performances: These masks are worn by dancers during ceremonial dances.
The performances are meant to honor ancestors, invoke spiritual beings, and bring
blessings to the community.
- Cultural Symbolism: The masks play a vital role in preserving the cultural heritage
and traditional beliefs of the Baule people. They are not merely decorative items but
are imbued with deep cultural and spiritual meanings.

Collectible and Artistic Value

- Art Collectors: Due to their intricate design and cultural significance, Baule masks
are highly prized by art collectors and museums worldwide.
- Preservation: Efforts are made to preserve these masks as part of the global
appreciation for African art and cultural heritage.