African Tribal Art: Bete people, Cote d'Ivoire, Africa: Anthropomorphic Gre mask, its strong abstracted facial features are adorned with a beard of bells and beads. Brown/black patina, hand carved wood, Late 19th/ early 20th century. The mask comes with a custom-made wood and steel display stand.
The people who wear the masks are viewed as protective agents that represent the spiritual forces. Gre masks are known for their distorted features like facial protuberances, horned heads, bulging forehead, and tubular eyes. They are designed to provoke terror through embodying wild animals. This mask, based on a human face, also has the tusks of a wild boar.
In masked dance performances, emphasis on a an animals strength and ferocity are evoked, giving the masked dancer power to expel evil forces and disease.
This piece will be accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.
Dimensions: 13.5H x 10W x 5D; 21H on stand. (inches)
Provenance: From the private collection of Massachusetts Gentlemen.
NOTE: Please inspect the photos, which supplement the written description and show the condition of this lot.
***VIDEO: To see a 3D video of this item, copy and paste the link below into your search browser:
https://youtu.be/BMPW4Dw0anM
Provenance: Private Collection, Massachusetts, Private collection, New York
Dimensions: See Description
Condition
Good condition with evidence of use and age.
Note: Please inspect the photos, which supplement the written description and show the condition of this lot.
NOTE: If documentation is not listed, the lot is sold without documents.
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact the Gallery with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices from our gallery. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer.