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Mask of Wisdom (Gbona Gla)

Wè, 2000

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Mask of Wisdom (Gbona Gla)

Wè, 2000

Physical Qualities Wood, copper alloy bells, human hair, cowrie shells, zinc alloy teeth, pigment, plant fiber, cotton, 11 5/8 × 8 11/16 × 4 15/16 in. (29.5 × 22 × 12.5 cm.)
Credit Line Gift of Sandra R. Leichtman, Baltimore
Object Number 1991.356
Power radiates from materials that accumulate on the surface of these objects. Without such adornment, these works would be commonplace, everyday. These expensive and eye-catching materials—horns, seeds, and shells, among others—speak to the spiritual and political authority of those who wear them, and draw a viewer’s eye toward important people and performances.
The Baltimore Museum of Art by gift, 1991; Dr. Sandy Leichtman, Baltimore; formerly Arthur Barth, 1969
Subverting Beauty: African Anti-Aesthetics
"Turning agianstbeauty," The Baltimore Sun, Arts and Entertainment section, Sunday, July 29, 2018
Sotheby's sale 5248 Nov 29, 1984 Lot 183.

Culture

2000–2000

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