African Arts Gallery

African mask carved in dense wood, which offers a circular plate front set with upholstery nails. The white bulbous eyelids are complemented by a large nose and a thick mouth framed by side elements depicting hands holding traditional "wakemia" spoons (symbols in Côte d'Ivoire of "the hospitable woman"). Satin black patina, grainy kaolin highlights.
It is mainly in the west of the Ivory Coast that the Bété use masks linked to the cult of the bagnon. The style of their dance masks was influenced by the Wobé and Guéré populations, together referred to as Wé or "the men who forgive easily", themselves belonging to the cultural group Krou , these traditions having been transmitted to them and taught by the Nyabwa. Of warlike origin but also participating in the resolution of conflicts, this sacred mask is worn accompanied by amulets which protect its wearer from its power against witchcraft. It is in order to strengthen his power through the exercise of customary justice that these masks are made available to the chief.