This astounding mask combines elements from several Ivorian tribes including the Baule, Guro, and Yaure peoples. The concept of the double mask is a traditional form of Baule art, however,...
This astounding mask combines elements from several Ivorian tribes including the Baule, Guro, and Yaure peoples. The concept of the double mask is a traditional form of Baule art, however, they often seek to distinguish between the two personages whereas, on this mask, the faces are almost identical. The large sculptural female figure that crowns the mask is stylistically similar to the sculptures of the Guro tribe. The stance with the hands held above the hips, the columnar neck, and the arching braid that falls to a side out of a square box are all characteristic of Guro art. However, the distinctive serrated jaw-line seen along the faces of the double mask is the definitive hallmark of the Yaure style. Considering the close proximity of all these tribe, it is clear from this remarkable mask how much influence they had on one another. This mask is a stunning hybrid of styles that blends the best features from individual tribes and merges them together in a grand format. This work is in reality two: a double mask and a fertility sculpture. However, the artist has merged these two sculptural formats into one just like he has merged styles creating a gorgeous work that represents the best of Ivorian art.