Baule or Baoulé mask from Ivory Coast

Dimensions: 37 x 19 cm.

Sold without mask stand. This can be purchased separately on our website.

The masks of the Baule, also called Baoulé, are among the most famous and prized works of art in West Africa. The Baule are a population group from Ivory Coast, mainly located in the central part of the country. Their masks are often associated with religious and spiritual practices, especially with the Goli ceremony, an important ritual that encompasses several aspects of the Baule faith. These masks represent various spirits, ancestors, or supernatural entities that play a role in the spiritual life of the Baule community.

Baule masks are known for their refined craftsmanship and aesthetic quality. They are often characterized by smooth surfaces, balanced proportions and complex details.

Baule masks have had a significant influence on Western artists and collectors since they were first discovered by European explorers in the 19th century. Their aesthetics and spiritual depth have inspired artists such as Pablo Picasso and Henri Matisse, who incorporated elements of Baule art into their own works.

In essence, Baule masks are not only remarkable artistic creations, but also important symbols of the spiritual and cultural identity of the Baule community. Their significance extends beyond aesthetics, and they remain a source of fascination and study for art lovers and anthropologists alike around the world.