Mask (Kple Kple or Kouassi Gbe), late 1800s-early 1900s. Africa, West Africa, Côte d’Ivoire, Baule-style carver. Wood, resin, and paint; overall: cm (16 in.). This kple kple mask belongs to the first of four pairs of masks that entertain as part of a performance sequence in the goli dance. The male in each pair dances first. The masks are worn by young boys in a rapid stamping dance. The masqueraders alternate with each other and watch their partners perform. The head of the male kple kple is painted red, whereas the female, like this example, is colored black.

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Size: 2298px × 3400px
Photo credit: © CMA/BOT / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No

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