Yohure Mask, Ivory Coast, African Tribal Creations, art, Baule je lo Yaure death

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Yohure Mask, Ivory Coast, African Tribal Creations, art, Baule je lo Yaure death:
$114.27

AnAfrican Tribal Creations sale!!!

This sale is for a beautiful Yohure Mask. A rather small ethnic group located in Cote d\'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), between the Baule and Guro people, the Yohure are heavily influenced religously, culturally, and artistically by their much larger neighbors. Despite these influences, however, the Yohure have a strong sense of cultural identity, and have developed an exquisite artistic style that is most prominently featured in their breathtaking masks. Generally human in appearance, often with elements of animals incorporated, the masks are generally associated with their use in funerary ceremonies, and are intended both to guide the spirits of the deceased into the afterlife, as well as to help restore social order in the event that a death greatly upsets the community. Considered spiritual emblems, the masks are said to be quite dangerous, as the yuspirits they represent are known to be capable of harming humans. As such, they must be handled with the utmost care. Because of this association with death, women are not only not allowed to participate in dances with these masks, but are not generally allowed to view them at all. The Yohure believe that this proximity to death can cause a woman to lose her fertility, an unthinkable prospect in many African cultures.

This gorgeous Yohure mask displays many of the common traits that make them so lauded and desirable. The coiffure is elegantly rendered, featuring a symmetrical motif. The Baule influences can easily be seen in the facial details, and like many masks of West Africa, identifying scarification marks are represented on the piece, in this case, in the center of the forehead above the brow. The eyelids are pigmented as well, and the mask bears a rich, textured, dark brown-black patina. It displays typical marks from wear and handling, including normal age cracking, minor chips, dents, etc. (which should be considered normal), and we suspect it may have undergone an indigenous repair to the superstructure, left of the centerline. It does not significantly affect the impact or presentation of the piece. See photos for details, and never hesitate to ask questions! The mask is in great condition, and is an exceptionally beautiful example of the style. These masks are quite uncommonly available, so put one in your collection!

Dimensions of this piece are 18.5\" x 9\" x 6\",and it weighs in at about two pounds.

Stand not included.

Medium: Wood, Pigment

NOTHINGwe sell at African Tribal Creations is made in China, Taiwan, Thailand, or wherever. All items are 100% guaranteedAFRICAN ART, made in Africa BY the indigenous peoples of Africa. We have 100% positive response for a reason.
Not quite the piece you\'re looking for?Check us out atthe African Tribal Creations galleryfor much more 100% genuine African art!

Payment is expected within 3 days of sale close. Unless other arrangements are made, negative response will be assessed in the event of non payment.
This is a beautiful piece of art! It would be a great compliment to any decor, or private collection!
PayPal is the only accepted payment method unless other arrangements are made. Feel free to ask if you have a question!
Ships insured, and with delivery confirmation so you can track your purchase to your door! Be advised that in the event that a piece arrives broken, USPS will require you to surrender it to them in order to claim a refund. Shipping price is for the CONTINENTAL US. If you are in Alaska or Hawaii, please contact for a shipping rate, or you will be billed for your rate at sale end! Thank you!
We will ship internationally, but please contact for a shipping quote. We cannot be held responsible for customs hold ups! We will do our best, but at the end of the day, we can\'t offer an absolute international guarantee. Please inquire! Thanks for understanding!