The Baule resisted the invasion of French colonials longer than any other West African people. They managed to uphold their practices, traditions and beliefs during this dark period. Today, the proud Baule of the Ivory Coast, number well over a million strong. Artistically they are responsible for 3 groups of masks: the "gba gba, bonu amuen and the goli." Each mask grouping is associated with a corresponding ceremony. The Kple Kple pictured here belongs to the mask group of Goli. The most popular Goli, made in a variety of sizes is used as a symbol of fertility during agricultural and commemorative ceremonies. The Goli is also paraded during the occasions of a new harvest, the visit of dignitaries, or at the funerals of notables. Borrowed from the Wan tribe after 1900, the face is round and flat, the eyes ovular and the pigmentation a traditional red and black painted on a tan hard wood. The Kple kple is topped by a crown of two horns. The round head represents the nurturing sun and the horns embody the spirit of the powerful water buffalo. During rituals masks are believed to be a conduit for supernatural forces to interact with the members. These spirits can either have a negative or positive effect on the tribe’s affairs. This large mask as with all Baule masks are only worn by men.

Please click photo for enlargement!

Sold

Dimensions: 41 inches tall x 26 1/2  inches across.

Any QUESTIONS or to reserve this selection please leave a message here at Contact Us!