Anthropozoomorphic face mask ·  Côte d'Ivoire, Yaure · ID: 3050390

Description

wood, kaolin, rest.

The projections on the chin show the tusks and trunk of an elephant.
For two formally very similar masks, see AHDRC 0061604 and 0061629.

Most Yaure masks show a human face combined with animal attributes. They belong to either the “je” or the “lo” masks, two mask groups which are difficult to differentiate. They are used to influence supernatural forces “yu” which cause harm to humans but also ensure their well-being.

The object Anthropozoomorphic face mask with the object ID 3050390 was part of the auction Collectors’ Items Sale on September 24, 2025, lot number 168 at that time and is currently available for EUR 800 in Open sale.

You can find more Masks and other popular object types on our related topic pages. You may also be interested in our page on African art.

Comparing literature

Barbier, Jean Paul (ed.), Art of Côte d' Ivoire, Vol II, Genève 1993, p. 107, ill. 181