Zoomorphic mask
Côte d'Ivoire, Bété
not available anymore
Provenance
Jan Visser, Brussels, BelgiumSize
H: 27 cm
H: 10.6 inch
Description
wood, matt patina, polychrome paint, consisting of geometrical forms projecting from a plane background, tubular eyes, tusk- and clamp-like projections superimposed, mouth with metal teeth, decoration tag, min. dam., traces of insect caused damage and abrasion, fine cracks, 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 warriors mask.