Book dossier

Baule

by Alain-Michel Boyer

"The Baule, who live in central Ivory Coast, produce an extremely diversified art, in virtually all categories of objects, as if every utilitarian article could be a source of inspiration. While neighbouring peoples often confine themselves to carving masks, and others to making only statuettes, the Baule, in addition to these creations still in use, in the past were using doors, spoons, pulleys and decorated drums, and made the most of every kind of utensil: seats, gong beaters, catapults ... An abundance of art which is also conveyed by the way all the materials were used: wood, fabrics, metal, gold ... And in many instances, it was the most humble of works that were the most powerful aesthetically." "This book offers us an overview of the Baule people, the better to help us understand how very diverse forms and styles may hail from a single source. It examines the Baule through photographs taken in the field and some sixty pieces coming from museums and private collections."--Jacket.