Part of the Akan language group, the Baule settled in the Ivory Coast more than two centuries ago and assimilated prominent masking rites from their neighbors –the Guro, Senufo and Yaure peoples – into their own traditions. Masks are held to be one of their most ancient and fundamental art forms. A primary dance of rejoicing called goli, which symbolizes the social order, is the source of the most iconic Baule masks.These are kpan, representing the senior female in the dance and carved with elaborate coiffures; ndoma, idealized portrait-masks of distinguished community members; and kple, abstract, animalistic masks that depict the junior male.  

This fine mask is likely a kpan type, featuring a dramatic, crest-shaped coiffure with bosses on either side of the head. The elongated face is carved in classic style, with semicircular, hooded eyes; a long, narrow nose, and a small, ovular, open mouth just above the chin.Attachment holes are bored around the backing of the mask, through which cord or fiber would have affixed the mask to a dance costume.

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