ArtsWestchester – Gala Auction 2022
Auction Ends: Nov 12, 2022 09:45 PM EST

Art

Baule Ceremonial Mask

Item Number
255
Estimated Value
895 USD
Sold
380 USD to lmfa27cfd
Number of Bids
5  -  Bid History

Item Description

Baule Peoples, Cote d' Ivoire (Ivory Coast)

H: (with base) 20 inches Width: 10 in. Depth: 7 in. 

 The Baule people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Cote d' Ivoire (Ivory Coast). They belong to the Akan peoples who inhabit Ghana centuries ago. According to a legend, in the eighteenth century, the queen mother, Abena Pokua, had to lead her people west to the shores of Comoe, the land of Senufo.  In order to cross the river she sacrificed her own son.  This sacrifice was the origin of the name Baule, for Baouli means "the child has died".

Baule art is sophisticated and diverse.  Masks, sculptures, doors and other objects allow a closer contact with the supernatural world. A mask of this type shown here was danced for annual yam festival and also for entertainment during market days.

Item Special Note

One of One Piece

*Do not use water or any chemical agent to clean this piece. Dust off with dry cloth*

Donated By: