Mask – Wood – Bete – Ivory Coast

Stunning Bete mask from Ivory Coast. BETE carvers are renowned for one particular type of face mask which exaggerated features: a large protruding mouth, an elongated nose, with nostrils sometimes extending to each side of the face, and globular eyes set beneath a high-domed forehead carved with a medium ridge. Historically, this type of mask was worn to prepare men for war; nowadays, it is worn for a variety of ceremonies, including entertainment dances.

The Ivory Coast is home of the BETE, they live between the AKAN tribe to the east and the GURO tribe to the north. They number 350,000.

Impressive wooden BETE mask with a powerful appearance. Fair condition with traces of wear and tear. Beautiful aged patina. Some horns seemed to be restored in the past.