A bronze bracelet - Baule - Côte d'Ivoire (No reserve price)

Baule Bracelet - Bouaké Region, Côte d’Ivoire The massive, wide-opening metal bracelet derives its effect from the contrast between its heavy volume and its exceptionally fine surface detail. The curved exterior is entirely covered with densely placed parallel lines arranged in horizontal registers. On the side panels, diagonal hatching alternates with concentric semicircles and geometric bands. The warm, coppery-brown patina is occasionally interrupted by greenish traces of oxidation. Despite its ornamental density, the form remains austere and monumental; the piece of jewelry appears almost like a small architectural sculpture. The Bouaké region is part of the central settlement area of ​​the Baule people in Côte d’Ivoire. Comparable Baule bracelets made of bronze or brass have been found as arm and especially ankle ornaments; they are characterized by cast, often hollow bodies with finely grooved surfaces and concentric semicircular motifs. The Smithsonian documents such anklets as a sign of wealth and social status, noting their production using the lost-wax casting process. Literature (selection) Susan M. Vogel: Baule: African Art, Western Eyes. New Haven 1997. Timothy F. Garrard: Gold of Africa. Geneva 1989. Laure Meyer: Objets africains. Paris 1994. Some of the information and photos are generated by artificial intelligence and is based on published sources from the fields of ethnography, archaeology, and art history documents. All information and photos are protected by copyright. Inv. No. MAZ21239 Informant: Bakari Bouafle

Estimate:$168.06

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