Unidentified Artist (Baule Peoples)
Côte d’Ivoire
Date:
19th century
Medium:
Gold alloy
Size:
Depth: 3/8″
Width: 1 9/16″
Height: 1 15/16″

Visual Description:

This gold alloy pendant measures five centimeters high, four centimeters wide, and one centimeter deep. Its smooth, rounded surface depicts a stylized face with closed eyes, arched eyebrows that connect in the center, and a narrow nose. At the bottom edge of the pendant, a slit curves slightly upward and is surrounded by two thin strands of gold, resembling a subtle smile and two parted lips. Attached to the upper surface of the pendant is a flat piece of metal with a textured pattern resembling braided hair. Affixed to the hair-like decoration are three small hoops, possibly used to connect the pendant to a necklace or strap.

Bequest of Saidie A. May BMA 1951.168

A miniature gold-alloy mask with closed eyes, a narrow nose, and a subtle smile. The top edge of the mask is textured with a pattern resembling braided hair.