FEMALE MASK called Kpwan
Baoulé culture, Ivory Coast
First half of the 20th century
Wood and plant fiber cords
Height: 40 cm; Width: 17 cm

A single-piece wooden face mask, carved into a thin, oval face, slightly tapered at the chin, with a headdress featuring five chignons. Its eyes are almond-shaped, accentuated by crescent-shaped eyebrows. Its mouth is slightly open, revealing small, pointed teeth.

Kpwan represents one of the figures in the ritual ceremonies of Goli: the wife of Goli Glin, the mother who gives life.

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON