Baule Kpan Mask, Cote d'Ivoire

Description of Significance:

Baule Kpan masks, originating from the Baule people of Ivory Coast, are significant in their cultural heritage, particularly in the context of the Goli dance. These masks are traditionally used during various ceremonies, including funerals and celebrations, to convey social and spiritual messages. However, when created for decorative purposes, they often embody the aesthetic and cultural elements of the traditional masks without the ritualistic functions.

The masks typically feature an oval face, with a high forehead, and fine, delicate facial features. The eyes are often half-closed, symbolizing tranquility and introspection. While traditional masks have deep symbolic meanings related to ancestors, spirits, and social roles, decorative Baule Kpan masks primarily focus on capturing the artistic cultural beauty of the historic pieces.

Country of Origin:

• Hand carved in Cote d'Ivoire

Dimensions (inches):

• Depth: 7"
  
• Width: 9" 
• Height: 17"

Sustainable Materials:

• Paint and stain
• Indigenous wood

Display Options:

• This mask includes a wire on the back for easy hanging.

About Decorative African Art:

Hemingway Gallery only purchases pieces from artists or owners that we approve of historically and aesthetically. These might include artworks that have been newly created and are currently being used in ceremonies. We place high value in these pieces, despite their lack of age and antiquity, regarding them as real even though they are not old. Some are created for use by the people and not made for the tourist trade. Ours are by talented artisans creating fine art that reference historic styles. Newly produced African art is gorgeous and we value these pieces. This includes contemporary aesthetics from the continent that may not necessarily look traditionally ‘African’. Our goal is to represent design in Africa that goes beyond the idea of ‘tribal’ as the styles of emerging artists are ever evolving.

Our Pricing:

Our pricing correlates directly to the asking prices of artists, artisans and art dealers in the various African countries we collect from and the costs of importing their artwork to the U.S. We need to change the idea that artists should be paid pennies for their fine art just because it comes from Africa. Paying a fair price to our artists is our number one priority and our pricing reflects that.

Shipping:

• Shipped with FedEx Ground: $20
• We ship around the world! Our website is still new and is not yet processing automatic international shipping rates. Please contact us directly for custom shipping quotes outside the mainland USA (including Hawaii and Alaska).

Further Information:

Please email us at info@hemingwayafricangallery.com or call 212-838-3650 with the SKU # for further information on this piece.