This page is a record of an exhibit that took place in 1994. The individual links below will take you to the CURRENT VERSION of the pages that formed part of that exhibit. |
Baule Sculpture is an exhibition incorporating extreme contrasts in artistic
style, from the elegant and refined to the primitive and almost abstract.
Female face masks, kpan, and most Baule figures are characterized
by their grace, beauty & virtuosity of carving. The quiet, dignified
figures can embody a nature spirit, asie usu, or serve as a spiritual
spouse, blolo bian or blolo bla; either must be placated with
care. The show's traditional figures range from small, delicate pieces to
several large, powerful seated works.
In stark contrast are the kplekple, round flat masks with horns,
one of Africa's boldest abstractions. We have an outstanding selection of
large ones, worn during Goli, the dance of rejoicing. Other works
include figures of the ape god, gbekre, which exude protective spirituality.
Baule skill in metal casting, evident in bronze bracelets, small masks and
pendants, round out an impressive and beautiful show.
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