Protective Mask

Small bronze mask that demonstrates a great mastery of sculpture and foundry by its filmmaker. The face, oval, shows how all the achievements of Baule art, a great serenity and dignity. Facial scarifications. Open mouth and semi-closed eyes under large ciliary arches. A fine bearded necklace surrounds the menton and part of the cheeks. On the head stands a royal couple or notables, sitting on akan stools. The man with a control staff held with his hand, symbol of his dignity, and a long braided beard reaching to his belly; The woman, touched with the typical Akan hairstyle, breastfeeds her son lying on her lap. These small masks are venerated by the families who hope to obtain the protection of the ancestors represented in it. Greenish patina.