African mask Kpwan Kpwé Goli

The Baoulé are one of the best known groups in Côte d'Ivoire for their artistic production. The latter is close to that of the Yahouré and the Gouro, their closest neighbours. Their artistic production is largely animated by different societies, using their masks during ritual ceremonies. This mask belongs to the goli group, probably the most important mask family in the Baoulé culture. The masks of the goli were used in particular during periods of conflict in order to establish a link with the supernatural forces so that they positively influence the lives of the living. This mask, named kpwan kple in vernacular, represents an anthropo-zoomorphic head. The eyes in the centre of the face are sculpted in the shape of coffee beans and are inscribed under a brace eyebrow arch. Dating: c. 1940. Dimensions: 45 cm. Materials: wood. Provenance: ex private collection, Switzerland. Provided with certificate of origin from an independent expert.

Ref. : GKYJDT44