African Arts Gallery

The Wé sculpt African masks that are the result of interlocking stylistic forms. The Dan , in the north, and the Wé in the south (group Krou including the Guéré , the Wobé of the northeast and the Wé of Liberia called Kran or Khran), made use of frequent borrowings due to their proximity. The elements of the bush, in this case references to the pachyderm, are associated with human traits marking the duality of the divine. Before the 1960s, the masks, whose elaboration was inspired by the visits of the spirits during dreams, accompanied most activities such as war, dancing, singing, hunting. Each of these masks had a name associated with its function. It remained the property of the dancer's lineage. This mask would embody a formidable spirit, a supernatural power, that of the forest. He would appear equipped with many accessories, during night outings, lit by the light of torches. The Wé were also renowned for their knowledge of plants for therapeutic use.
Abraded grainy patina, desication cracks.