Return to Gallery
Portrait mask (Mblo)Mblo © Jerry L. Thompson

Portrait mask (Mblo)

Baule peoples (Côte d’Ivoire). Early 20th century C.E. Wood and pigment.

Curator Note

"A rare "portrait" of a living person. This specific mask honors Moya Yanso, a respected dancer. It doesn't look exactly like her, but captures her "spirit age" and dignity. She would dance alongside it."

Form

  • Oval face with elongated nose and small mouth.
  • High forehead implies wisdom and intellect.
  • Downcast eyes: Signify respect and modesty.
  • Ornamentation: Brass triangles on cheeks/forehead catch the light (health/status).
  • Coiffure: Elaborate hairstyles or crowns/horns top the mask.

Function

  • Entertainment mask (Gbagba dance): Secular, not secret or sacred.
  • Social honor: Commissioned to honor a specific, respected member of the community.
  • Performance: The subject (Moya Yanso) would dance with the masker.
  • Aesthetic display: To show the beauty and skill of the carver (Owie Kimou).
  • Finale: Appearing at the end of a long sequence of dances (the climax).

Content

  • Portraiture: Not a photorealistic copy, but an idealized "essence" of the person.
  • Double-nature: The mask is the "double" or namesake of the living person.
  • Beard: Often appears on female masks, symbolizing age/wisdom.
  • Triangles: Texture represents the quality of the skin and light.
  • Expression: "Peaceful containment" (coolness).

Context

  • Baule peoples (Ivory Coast).
  • Carver: Owie Kimou (one of the few known African artists in the canon).
  • Subject: Moya Yanso (a famous dancer and beauty).
  • Provenance: We know the exact history because the family was interviewed.
  • Baule art is unique for its "art for art's sake" appreciation.