Yaouré mask in solid wood, Côte d'Ivoire, 19th century

Carved from solid wood with a dark patina, this anthropomorphic mask associated with the Yaouré culture of Côte d'Ivoire is dated to the 19th century. The elongated face, with narrow, half-closed eyes, features a slender nose and a coiffure finely incised with geometric striations, surmounted by a carved bird figure whose wood retains lighter tones. Measuring 50 cm in height and 16 cm in width, the piece is in good overall condition and is said to have been brought back by a former French serviceman.