Ivorian Baule Firespider Mask Mask the Tchiwara antelope is admired

the Tchiwara antelope is admired for both its aesthetic beauty and its cultural significance

The elaborate design and attention to detail reflect the Dan Guere’s belief in the mask’s power to protect

Measuring: 5in X 4

it is a cultural artifact that tells the story of the Gouro people and their deep spiritual traditions

Interspersed among the shells are intricate patterns of beadwork

Ivorian Baule Firespider Mask Mask the Tchiwara antelope is admiredBaule Firespider Mask from Ivory Coast The Baule people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Cote dIvoire (Ivory Coast). They belong to the Akan peoples who inhabited Ghana centuries ago. According to a legend, in the eighteenth century, the queen mother, Abla Pokou had to lead her people west to the shores of Comoe, the land of Senufo. To cross the river she sacrificed her son. This sacrifice originated the name Baule, for Baouli means the child