Horned mask "je"
Description
wood, reddish brown patina, remains of dark pigment, chin plug and framing zigzag beard, crowned by curved horns, delicate modelled facial features, min. dam., fine cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base;
early colonial remittance work.
These masks are worn predominantly on two occasions: the “je” celebration and the “lo” ceremony.
The “je” - mask dances are used to purify the village after a death and restore the social equilibrium of the community. In addition, the masks accompany the spirit of the dead on his way into the world of the ancestors “iremofla”. “Je” - Masks are usually painted in color.
The “lo” masks appear at funeral celebrations, they are colored black. Women are forbidden to see these masks, which are considered to be particularly dangerous. It is believed that this encounter with death might jeopardize their fecundity.
With the aid of such masks, the people hope to influence supernatural powers, or “yu” spirits, that can do harm to humans, but that can also ensure their welfare.
The function of each type of mask is not rigidly fixed, which leads to their appearance during either ceremony. Present mask may be attributed to the “tu bodu” type (bush cow) of the “lo group.
Comparing literature
Michalak, Claude, Arts Premiers de Côte d' Ivoire, Paris 2013, p. 84Publications
AHDRC: 0142264