Mask Passport

Baule · Côte d’Ivoire

Reference: MPS-17

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Height
22 cm
Material
Wood and pigments.

Small masks also called “San Cristóbal”. They are employed by travellers travelling abroad or outside their region. They are sewn to a piece of cloth and…

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Full original description

Small masks also called “San Cristóbal”. They are employed by travellers travelling abroad or outside their region. They are sewn to a piece of cloth and are tied to their backs, to the height of the waist. Sometimes they are also stored in the suitcase or between the clothes. They are usually copies of family masks. They protect against accidents. They serve to identify and be recognized as members of a particular ethnic group. They are usually copies of family masks and participate as witnesses in initiation ceremonies. When there are accommodation problems this mask always puts in the middle of the way to some acquaintance who will solve the problem. On ritual dates its bearer will present offerings and libations to these masks.

Scarifications in front and cheeks. hairstyle elaborated on the front with a small end eb shape of bow. Nice patina for use. It has three functions: Protect your carrier, facilitate accommodation and receive the offerings of your possessor. Old patina.

Further technical information
Attributed period
First third of the century XX.

Details transcribed from the original catalogue; they are not a recent physical inspection.

Country on the map

Côte d’Ivoire. The country associated with the catalog is shown, not the current location of the piece.

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Attributions, dates and accounts come from the preserved catalogue. They do not constitute certification of authenticity or provenance. An object’s presence on this website does not mean it is available for sale.

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