Guéré ceremonial mask - Côte d'Ivoire

Ivory Coast Guéré Wood, fabrics, hair, nail, metal Height: 260mm Width: 170mm Depth: 105mm 1 - Origin and Cultural Context This anthropomorphic mask of 26 cm originates in the west of Ivory Coast, within the great cultural complex of the Guéré (Wè) peoples. This region, marked by dense forests, developed a unique ritual aesthetic, centered on dramatic expressivity, relief, and the accumulation of heterogeneous textures. The piece moves away from the smooth, idealized representations of other Ivorian ethnic groups to favor a striking, textured theatricality. 2 - Use and Ritual Function The use of this mask primarily fits the functions of entertainment, social satire, and village mediation. Within Guéré communities, this type of anthropomorphic figure does not have the absolute severity of the great masks used for exorcism or war. It plays a lively role during end-of-harvest festivals, secular celebrations, or during intermediate funeral ceremonies. The wearer uses the mask to mime, stage morally instructive narratives, and, under the cover of anonymity, point out the community’s faults. 3 - Technical Feature: The Articulated Jaw The major morphological element and the most relevant feature of this piece lies in its lower jaw, which is articulated. Sculpted independently of the rest of the face and connected by flexible ties, it moves with the slightest head movement of the dancer. This movable mouth, combined with inserts of light wood or bone representing individualized teeth, creates the illusion of speech and chewing, thereby intensifying the living and captivating aspect of the ritual performance. 4 - Polychromy and Composite Materials Surface analysis reveals a typically composite conception characteristic of Guéré art. The forehead and eye area retain traces of a white kaolin engobe, while the nose and cheeks bear a crusty patina loaded with ochre, red, and green pigments. The mask also retains its precious textile attributes: a thick, padded black fabric band crowns the top of the head, and a false beard made of plant fibers or dark braided hairs wraps around the movable jaw. 5 - Internal Examination and Usage Patina Examination of the reverse provides valuable technical information about the object’s history. The inner face shows a deep, regular hollow that perfectly accommodates the initiate’s facial anatomy. The wood bears a brown, smooth patina from use, evidence of repeated rubbing of skin and sweat during dances. The lateral perforations around the circumference are clearly visible, as well as the neat transverse cut that frees the jaw mechanism. The objects are shipped with insurance and tracking number. Packages are sent from Monday to Saturday. Delivery in France in 1 to 3 days with Chronopost, and between 2 and 5 days across Europe. Worldwide delivery with Colissimo International. We speak english. Mask african art Afrikanische Maskenkunst arte de máscaras africanas arte delle maschere africane statue african art Arte de estatuas africanas arte delle statue africane Afrikanische Maskenkunst Máscara de estatua de galería de arte africano

Estimate:$224.74

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