Bidspirit auction | GROUP OF PASSPORT MASKS AND

GROUP OF PASSPORT MASKS AND A BAULE MASKETTE - Ca. 19th - 20th century AD. > A varied assemblage of five miniature carved heads, combining four passport masks - likely Dan or related cultures - with a single Baule maskette distinguished by its fuller modelling and more naturalistic features. The passport masks are characterised by their reduced scale and portability: elongated or oval faces, simplified planes, slit or almond-shaped eyes, and restrained surface articulation. At centre, the Baule maskette stands apart stylistically. It presents a more volumetric and expressive face, with rounded cheeks, a defined mouth, and small protrusions (possibly metal tacks or coiffure elements) across the surface. The modeling reflects Baule aesthetic preferences for idealised beauty and composure, even at a miniature scale. > Provenance: Prince collection, 1990s-2014; Ex. WEBBS AUCTION HOUSE (Baule Maskette). > > Size: 50-75mm x 40-50mm; Weight: 390g > This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter. >