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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Bete, We : Bete Wooden Face Mask
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Bete Wooden Face Mask - PF.5936
Origin: Ivory Coast
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
13" (33.0cm) high
x 6.5" (16.5cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Wood and Mixed Media
Additional Information: Dimensions Do Not Include the Fur
$6,000.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
Bete masqueraders perform during burials, at
the end of mourning periods, or in honor of the
arrival of important dignitaries. Sometimes they,
or one of their attendants, carry a lance. This
weapon likely relates to the masks original tribal
function: a war mask. The face of this mask is
composed of geometric volumes that, as
independent bodies, seem to emerge from a flat
back panel. The separate features are arranged
in horizontal tiers, interrupted in the vertical
only by the hooked nose and the curved horns
that crown the mask. The vertical arches of the
horns are echoed by the upward sweep of the
oversized nostrils, which extend all the way to
the corner of the eyes. Two narrow slits have
been carved into the back panel to allow the
wearer to see, partially obscured by the curved
panel that represents the brows. There is an
intimidating quality that pervades this work, no
doubt related to its original function as a war
mask. While this mask would have once been
worn in combat to frighten the enemy, today it is
used to welcome visiting dignitaries. The same
artistic features that once put fear into the heart
of the enemies now command the respect and
admiration of important guests for the cultural
traditions of the Bete tribe.
- (PF.5936)
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