Vintage Baule Rabbit Mask

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Striking vintage mask originating from the Baule people of Côte d’Ivoire. Represents a stylized rabbit or hare, an animal widely … Read more Striking vintage mask originating from the Baule people of Côte d’Ivoire. Represents a stylized rabbit or hare, an animal widely associated in West African folklore with intelligence, alertness, and clever survival. Hand-carved from wood, the mask features the distinctive Baule aesthetic of smooth, balanced facial planes, narrow almond-shaped eyes, and a refined vertical ridge dividing the face, crowned by tall upright ears that identify the animal form. The dark, burnished patina reflects years of handling and traditional finishing methods, giving the surface a rich depth and warmth. Masks of this type were historically worn during village dances and community performances, where masked dancers embodied animals and symbolic characters as part of storytelling, celebration, and moral instruction. Beautifully sculptural piece which reflects the Baule tradition’s renowned blend of elegance, symbolism, and expressive carving, making it a compelling piece of African tribal art for collectors and interior display alike. Circa 1950's-1970. See less