Kpan or Mblo,Cote d’Ivoire

12.5 inches, painted wood

This mask probably falls into a special grouping known as portrait masks. These portrait masks are said to portray an honored person of the village or a personal ancestor who is celebrated during a ceremonial dance known as Mblo.The mask would be worn with a multicolored costume and danced in the most graceful manner by either the person it represents or a relative. The costume would have been attached to the broad collar of the mask by cords that were threaded through the holes at the back of the mask. These masks are danced to entertain during days that the Baule do not work and they will also appear to honor important visitors to the village. They also dance to celebrate the ancestor or the person represented by the mask.

$360

Home - About Me -  Book Offer -  Collecting Tips - FAQ
Ordering - Contact - Links - Mystery Masks