African Arts Gallery

The tapered beak of the sculpted figure at the top vertically divides this Ligbi mask, Djimini. Tricolor highlights and gilt metal inlays enhance the lines marked with "cat's whiskers" scarifications. Narrow slits form the look, and the mouth is also reduced to a thin opening. Satin reddish brown patina. Established in Ivory Coast, but also in Ghana, the Ligbi, Islamized, however, were influenced by Senufo tribal sculpture. They borrowed elements from it that they incorporated into African masks linked to the do society. This masked tradition has been kept to manifest itself during religious festivals accompanied by sacrifices and songs such as the end of Ramadan, and in this way 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 and white clay, henna, and kola nut-based powder will enhance scarifications when they are present, facial features and hairstyle.