Grand Senoufo kpélié mask from Ivory Coast, 20th century.

Important Sénoufo mask of the Kpélié type, Ivory Coast, carved from a hollowed piece of wood on the reverse. The composition is distinguished by its monumental size of 80 cm, its elongated face with slit eyes, its long axial nose, conical reliefs arranged on the forehead and cheeks, as well as its numerous lateral geometric appendages. The upper part is particularly spectacular, featuring two large curved and striated horns framing a fully sculpted human figure, an element that gives the whole piece a very architectural presence. The reverse, deeply carved and irregular, retains traces of the manual woodwork as well as a consistent aging of the material. Beautiful old patina, visible drying cracks, and wear. Period: 20th century, likely mid-century. Origin: Sénoufo people, Ivory Coast. Dimensions: H. 80 cm × W. Approximately 35 cm. A heavy and imposing piece. Old condition with accidents: several visible wood losses, particularly on some peripheral elements, as well as a part under the arm of the top figure that is detached but still in place. Cracks, wear, and signs of time consistent with the photographs. Despite these flaws, the mask retains a very strong decorative presence and a remarkable silhouette.