These African masks, introduced by the Niabwa, were carved in order to create psychological conditions favorable to rituals. Each of them had a secret name and materialized the powers of the forest. At the disposal of the chief, they were exhibited during funeral ceremonies or on the occasion of great festivals of meetings between several villages. In the past, this mask was dedicated to war and its mission was to prepare men for combat. This mask has horns that meet in front of the face like the legs of a spider on its prey. After armed conflicts, this mask presided over peacemaking ceremonies and customary justice sessions. The protruding forehead, forming a band, is studded on the periphery. Irregular patina locally encrusted with kaolin. The Bété are a farming people established on the left bank of the Sassandra River in southwestern Côte d'Ivoire. Their almost non-existent African tribal art statuary gives way to African masks that are particularly striking in their shapes and volumes.
This item is sold with its certificate of authenticity
You could also be interested by these items
If your offer is accepted, the item will be ordered on your behalf automaticaly. By making offer, you accept the selling conditions.
You must login to make an offer Log in