African Arts Gallery

Ex. French collection of African tribal art .
Ligbi mask, Djimini, topped with a similar mask in miniature. Highlights of blue and red pigments, and kaolin, enhance the sculpture.
Matte black patina, polychrome highlights.
Established in Ivory Coast, but also in Ghana, the Ligbi , Islamized, have however been influenced by Senoufo tribal sculpture. They borrowed elements from it that they integrated into African masks linked to the do society. This masked tradition has been preserved to manifest itself during religious festivals accompanied by sacrifices and songs such as the end of Ramadan , and thus symbolizing the breaking of the fast. Just before the festivities, if necessary, the mask will be repainted and therefore coated with koro, composed of burnt foliage whose ashes are mixed with palm oil. Red clay, white clay, henna, and a powder based on kola nuts will highlight the scarifications when they are present, the facial features and the hairstyle.