Afrikaans Baoule portretmasker uit Ivoorkust
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Ex Belgian Mercier private collection.

Imposing ancient Baoule portrait mask from Côte d'Ivoire. Plinth-mounted piece, 69 cm high.

These idealized Baoule portrait masks, called "ndoma" or "double", which pay tribute to a personality, are distinguished by their contemporary manifestation at the conclusion of recreational dance ceremonies. These festivities, known by different names depending on the region, such as bedwo, ngblo, mblo, adjussu, etc., offer a unique stage setting. It's not uncommon for the dancer to also wear the clothes of the person being celebrated, who may even actively participate by dancing alongside him or her.

The collection of tribal art comes from Guy Mercier, a consultant for the Solvay group, who began his collection at the beginning of the 20th century. During his work in West and Central Africa, he acquired works on the spot. However, the bulk of his collection came from the "cabinets of curiosity" that were popular in European capitals during the 1920s. In addition, he acquired pieces from prestigious galleries in Paris, Brussels, London and New York. This collection was then entrusted to Monsieur Jean Charles Mercier, Guy Mercier's grandson.

Piece accompanied by its certificate of authenticity.
PS: what does the certificate of authenticity consist of? https://www.galerie-art-africain.com/faq.aspx?qid=8

PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PRICE OF SHIPPING INCLUDES INSURANCE AGAINST LOSS, THEFT AND BREAKAGE.