African Bete Tribe Warrior Mask from the Ivory Coast, 20th Century West Africa

  

This African Bete Warrior Mask originates from the Ivory Coast, crafted in the early 20th century. Made from wood and studded with upholstery tasks, this mask is a great addition to any ethnographic or antique collection. With its original and authentic design, it perfectly depicts the artistic heritage of the Bete tribe. Quoted from Judith Miller's Tribal Art book: The Bete are a group of Kru speaking agriculturalists from southwest Ivory Coast.

They adapted the use of masks from the We nieghbors not earlier than the frist part of the 20th Century. Only Bete near the cities of Daloa and Issia use these highly stylized masks. THey are carved with domed foreheads and a series of horizontal lobes, which extend over the cheeks and eyes, and join to the nostrils. They may be studded with upholstery tacks. In the past, warriors danced them before battle, but nowadays they are used by dance societies--for example, in the popular Ivory Coast stilt dance.

This piece has old repairs, as shown, but is sturdy and highly decorated with tacks. The original string holes are complete.

The brown patina overall is beautiful. 15" l x 7"+/- h. This piece is a must-have for any art collector, its unique design and craftsmanship will leave any viewer in awe.