Portrait mask
Description
wood, shiny, blackish brown patina, of flattened oval form, raised scarification marks in the area of the eyes and the mouth, pierced around the rim, min. dam., insect caused damage, slight traces of abrasion, base;
masks like this represent recognized, named individuals. The men and women portrayed in masks are known for their great skill as dancers, for their exceptional beauty, or because they are important political figures. They represent an ideal in Baule culture typified by this mask. Physical beauty for the Baule and many Africans is almost always equated with the embellishment and natural endowments. The downcast eyes and closed lips imply respect and composure, two moral qualities that the Baule esteem greatly. Though portrait masks depict a person in his or her prime, their performance suggests a dignified elder.