Baule Kpwan mask
The African masquerades of Ivory Coast
At present, the Baule still perform a number of dances of ancestral origin for the entertainment of the village.
Goli Masks
One of these performances is known as goli. It is a one-day celebration usually performed at the funerals of high-ranking and respected members of the community.
Sources indicate that the goli dance not only provides entertainment but also protection for the village in which it is performed.
On this occasion, four pairs of red/black dance masks, male/female appearing in a predefined order.
They are known as the Kple Kple, the Goli Glin, the Kpan Pre and finally the Kpwan.
Traditional Kpwan masks
The mask that I offer here, a copy of Kpwan (the last and most important pair of goli masks) represents the woman of goli glin.
African Kpwan masks are considered the embodiment of mothers who give life.
Unlike goli glin masks, women and children are encouraged to dance and sing with kpwan masks during celebrations. When not in use, these traditional African masks are kept in the bush.
01999
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Circa 1960
- Size
- 43 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection Spain
- Condition
- Excellent
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The African masquerades of Ivory Coast
At present, the Baule still perform a number of dances of ancestral origin for the entertainment of the village.
Goli Masks
One of these performances is known as goli. It is a one-day celebration usually performed at the funerals of high-ranking and respected members of the community.
Sources indicate that the goli dance not only provides entertainment but also protection for the village in which it is performed.
On this occasion, four pairs of red/black dance masks, male/female appearing in a predefined order.
They are known as the Kple Kple, the Goli Glin, the Kpan Pre and finally the Kpwan.
Traditional Kpwan masks
The mask that I offer here, a copy of Kpwan (the last and most important pair of goli masks) represents the woman of goli glin.
African Kpwan masks are considered the embodiment of mothers who give life.
Unlike goli glin masks, women and children are encouraged to dance and sing with kpwan masks during celebrations. When not in use, these traditional African masks are kept in the bush.