African art Baoulé
The famous Baule masks
From Rubinstein to the Quai Branly
This African mask comes from the Baule stylistic canons of the Ivory Coast. The African art of West Africa is a careful art, where the proportions are harmonious and its features refined.
These masks are made famous by their presence in many museums, for example in the collection of the Dapper Foundation, but also in the Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac Museum where Helena Rubinstein's famous collection of African and Oceanic art was exhibited with great pomp.
Concerning the ritual and ceremonial function of these Baule masks, they were danced during festivities with an entertainment function. They interpreted a variety of characters according to the different attributes of each.
The Baule masks were danced during ceremonies and festivities, and served an entertainment function. They interpreted a variety of characters according to the different attributes of each. The vessel on our copy certainly evokes a woman who held the role of caregiver and prodigal within the community. This mask was danced in the presence of this woman, thus paying homage to her. The delicate features of the example presented here express an ideal of beauty and serenity.
01754
Data sheet
- Size
- 37 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Condition
- Excellent
The famous Baule masks
From Rubinstein to the Quai Branly
This African mask comes from the Baule stylistic canons of the Ivory Coast. The African art of West Africa is a careful art, where the proportions are harmonious and its features refined.
These masks are made famous by their presence in many museums, for example in the collection of the Dapper Foundation, but also in the Quai Branly - Jacques Chirac Museum where Helena Rubinstein's famous collection of African and Oceanic art was exhibited with great pomp.
Concerning the ritual and ceremonial function of these Baule masks, they were danced during festivities with an entertainment function. They interpreted a variety of characters according to the different attributes of each.
The Baule masks were danced during ceremonies and festivities, and served an entertainment function. They interpreted a variety of characters according to the different attributes of each. The vessel on our copy certainly evokes a woman who held the role of caregiver and prodigal within the community. This mask was danced in the presence of this woman, thus paying homage to her. The delicate features of the example presented here express an ideal of beauty and serenity.