This is a very fine old and field used carved wooden mask with precise incised linear designs, raised facial scars and elaborate coiffure. Note the well handled surface patina and signs of wear and use. The mask is a classic "Gba gba" or Mblo portrait mask. Designed as part of a Baule theatrical tradition, known as "Mblo," that combines dramatic skits and solo dances, this mask is an idealized representation of the prominent member of the community for which it was sculpted. Note the delicately textured coiffure and facial scarifications. Within Baule culture, Mblo portrait masks are appreciated as the most refined and long-standing form of artistic expression. While they may depict either men or women, such works were generally commissioned by a man to honor a female relative or created by a carver in homage to a particular woman's dance skills and beauty. Because of their importance, only the best dancers are eligible to wear portrait masks in performance. On such occasions it is required that the portrait's subject, or "double," be present to accompany it. The Baule consider these masks to be the most beautiful in their culture.This mask measures 13.5 x 7 inches ( 19 inches tall on display stand which is included.)Ex~ collection Jacques (Jack) Gansler, Virginia, USA. From 1997-2001, he served as the Under Secretary of Defense at the Department of Defense under President Bill Clinton. *(The last picture is of Mr Gansler at a Pentagon briefing.) He was also at Professor at Harvard, University of Virginia and University of Maryland.

fair, well handled