Baule People Ivory Coast Red African Mask

Date: before 1970

Geography: Côte d'Ivoire, central Côte d'Ivoire

Culture: Baule peoples

Material: Wood

Dimensions:  heigh: 55cm, only mask heigh: 33cm, width: 14.5cm

Classification: Wood-Sculpture

The Baule tribe is an Akan ethnic group primarily located in Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), in West Africa. They are known for their art, particularly their intricately carved wooden
masks, which have both cultural and spiritual significance. The Baule have a rich cultural heritage that includes music, dance, and elaborate ceremonies.

Baule masks are a significant part of the cultural heritage of the Baule people, one of the
largest ethnic groups in Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast). These masks are used in various
ceremonies and are known for their artistic and intricate designs.

The mask has several distinctive features typical of Baule art from the Ivory Coast:

1. Overall Shape and Structure: The mask is elongated with a smooth, rounded
forehead and a narrow chin, giving it an oval shape.

2. Facial Features:
- Eyes: The eyes are almond-shaped, with a calm and serene expression, half-
closed as if in meditation.
- Nose: The nose is long and narrow, extending down the center of the face.
- Mouth: The mouth is small and closed, with slightly protruding lips.

3. Color: The mask predominantly features a reddish-brown hue with some dark brown
or black areas, particularly around the top and bottom. The use of earthy tones is
common in Baule masks.

4. Carvings and Patterns:
o Cheek Design: There are geometric carvings on the cheeks, possibly
representing scarification patterns.
o Forehead and Temples: The mask has carved lines and patterns around the
forehead and temples, adding to its intricate design.

5. Additional Elements:
- Top Ornament: On top of the mask, there is a carved figure, which appears to
be an animal, possibly a leopard or another significant creature, known for its
symbolic importance in Baule culture.
- Neck and Base: The mask is attached to a cylindrical base or neck, which
might indicate it was mounted for display or used in ceremonies.

These features collectively give the mask a dignified and serene appearance, characteristic of Baule artistry, which often emphasizes symmetry, balance, and idealized human forms. The presence of the animal figure on top might denote specific cultural or spiritual significance, adding to the mask's symbolic value.