Zoomorphic mask "bonu amwin" · Côte d'Ivoire, Baule · ID: 3042084
Catherine Sargos, Nancy, France
Description
light brown wood, greyish brown patina, helmet-shaped, with open teeth revealing snout, min. dam., traces of insect caused damage and abrasion, small missing parts (horn tips), cracks, base;
this mask type belongs to men societies and is greatly feared by women who are not allowed to see them. The masks are danced to protect the village against threats, to discipline women, and at the funerals of important men. Their performances are fearsome spectacles, featuring violent behaviour and magical feats.
The object Zoomorphic mask “bonu amwin” with the object ID 3042084 was last part of the auction 86th Tribal Art Auction at May 27, 2017 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 231.
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Comparing literature
Boyer, Alain-Michel, Baule, Milan 2008, pl. 3
Publications
Galerie Vanuxem, Time Bless Art" Paris 2004, ill. 31
AHDRC: 0061561
Exhibition
Galerie Vanuxem, Time Bless Art, Paris 12 March - 15 May 2004