1 janv. 1900 - Portrait mask (Mblo)

Description:

The mask shown is mblo mask. They were used in Gbagba or dancing ceremonies. Gbagba was a ceremony at the end of the day that brings social relief and allowed residents to socialize, mourn, celebrate, feast, and even court. Not simply used for display but instead for more spiritual things.They were also used to honor a respected member of the Baule society. The mask’s oval face, elongated nose, open mouth, downcast slit eyes, and animal horn like features the qualities of someone that is good. The beard like pattern around the face suggests age, and the brass sheen suggests health. The hairstyles of the mask are realistic suggest an idealized inner state of beauty. They were made out of wood and ivory by the Baule peoples of the Cote d’Ivoire or Ivory Coast.