Hand-Carved | West African | Tribal Mask with Traces of Pigment | Circa Early 20th Century
- Prix habituel
- $350.00
- Prix soldé
- $350.00
- Prix habituel
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Hand-Carved | West African | Tribal Mask with Traces of Pigment | Circa Early 20th Century
Description
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Moins
Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Africa (likely Ivory Coast region)
Material: Hand-carved wood with pigment
Period: 20th Century tribal art tradition
Description
This striking hand-carved wooden mask reflects the sculptural traditions of West African tribal art, particularly those associated with the Baule and related cultural groups of Ivory Coast. The mask presents a long oval face with refined symmetry, narrow almond-shaped eyes, and a prominent central nose ridge that descends toward the mouth. The serene expression and simplified facial features emphasize balance and spiritual calm, characteristics commonly seen in traditional Baule portrait masks.
The surface retains remnants of pigment, including traces of red and pink coloration across the forehead and facial contours, suggesting the mask was once more vividly painted. Natural wear, surface patina, and age-related cracking contribute to the object’s authentic character and visual depth.
The interior is hollowed, with small cord holes allowing the mask to be mounted or secured for ceremonial use or display. Masks such as this were traditionally used in ritual performances, community ceremonies, or as symbolic representations of ancestral spirits and cultural identity.
Features
- Hand-carved West African wooden mask
- Elongated oval facial form with stylized features
- Narrow almond-shaped eyes and pronounced nose ridge
- Traces of traditional pigment across the surface
- Hollowed interior with cord holes for mounting or wearing
- Strong surface patina from age and handling
Cultural Significance
Masks hold a central role in many West African cultures, serving as spiritual objects used in ceremonial dances, community rituals, and ancestral veneration. Among Baule traditions, masks often represent idealized human beauty, ancestral spirits, or protective forces that connect the living with the spiritual world. The calm, symmetrical features seen here reflect aesthetic values associated with harmony, dignity, and spiritual presence.
Condition
Good tribal art condition with age-related wear, surface abrasions, pigment loss, and a visible crack along the chin area consistent with the natural aging of carved wood. The interior remains hollowed and intact.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 8.75 in
Width: 4.5 in
Depth: 3 in
Age (Approximate)
60–90 years old
Learn More
Explore the cultural role of masks and masquerades in West Africa through this resource from the Minneapolis Institute of Art
Discover Our Collection of Ethnographic Relics & Cultural Artifacts
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: West Africa (likely Ivory Coast region)
Material: Hand-carved wood with pigment
Period: 20th Century tribal art tradition
Description
This striking hand-carved wooden mask reflects the sculptural traditions of West African tribal art, particularly those associated with the Baule and related cultural groups of Ivory Coast. The mask presents a long oval face with refined symmetry, narrow almond-shaped eyes, and a prominent central nose ridge that descends toward the mouth. The serene expression and simplified facial features emphasize balance and spiritual calm, characteristics commonly seen in traditional Baule portrait masks.
The surface retains remnants of pigment, including traces of red and pink coloration across the forehead and facial contours, suggesting the mask was once more vividly painted. Natural wear, surface patina, and age-related cracking contribute to the object’s authentic character and visual depth.
The interior is hollowed, with small cord holes allowing the mask to be mounted or secured for ceremonial use or display. Masks such as this were traditionally used in ritual performances, community ceremonies, or as symbolic representations of ancestral spirits and cultural identity.
Features
- Hand-carved West African wooden mask
- Elongated oval facial form with stylized features
- Narrow almond-shaped eyes and pronounced nose ridge
- Traces of traditional pigment across the surface
- Hollowed interior with cord holes for mounting or wearing
- Strong surface patina from age and handling
Cultural Significance
Masks hold a central role in many West African cultures, serving as spiritual objects used in ceremonial dances, community rituals, and ancestral veneration. Among Baule traditions, masks often represent idealized human beauty, ancestral spirits, or protective forces that connect the living with the spiritual world. The calm, symmetrical features seen here reflect aesthetic values associated with harmony, dignity, and spiritual presence.
Condition
Good tribal art condition with age-related wear, surface abrasions, pigment loss, and a visible crack along the chin area consistent with the natural aging of carved wood. The interior remains hollowed and intact.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Height: 8.75 in
Width: 4.5 in
Depth: 3 in
Age (Approximate)
60–90 years old
Learn More
Explore the cultural role of masks and masquerades in West Africa through this resource from the Minneapolis Institute of Art
Discover Our Collection of Ethnographic Relics & Cultural Artifacts
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