Mask ·  Côte d'Ivoire, Bété · ID: 3039232

Description

wood, dark brown patina, remains of pigments, red fabric, of expansive sculptural form, the facial plane arranged in horizontal levels, abundant decor with inserted brass tags, plant fibre beard, min. dam., small missing parts, slight traces of abrasion, base;
the mask appears on funerals, towards the end of the mourning period or in honour of important persons, at which the mask dancer himself or one of his companions carries a lance. The weapon might be a hint on the masks original function as warrior mask.

Comparing literature

Boyer, Alain-Michel & Patrick Girard et.al., Arts premiers de Côte d' Ivoire, Sepia 1997, ill. 43