A Wé mask, Cote d'Ivoire, collected in the region of Bangolo, provenance Alpha Gazambo. Textured patina, signs of ritual use and age. Certificate of origin and provenance.

The Wé masks from the Bangolo region of Côte d'Ivoire are deeply embedded in the cultural and spiritual fabric of the Wé people, encompassing the Guéré and Wobé ethnic groups. These masks are not merely artistic expressions but serve as vital instruments in rituals, social regulation, and communication with the spiritual realm.

According to scholars Victòria Medina and Théophile Koui, the Wé mask is a paramount symbol of cultural identity, acting as a bridge between the visible and invisible worlds
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"The mask constitutes the bridge between the visible and the invisible world. It is unique – and used as a specific language in its diverse representations– it makes communication between both universes possible. It is the connection between the world of the Gods and human beings."

These masks are integral to various ceremonies, including funerals, weddings, and harvest celebrations. They are often adorned with materials like cowrie shells, beads, and metal bells, each element enhancing the mask's spiritual potency and aesthetic appeal. The designs are characterized by features such as tubular eyes and protruding mouths, which are believed to embody powerful spirits and convey specific messages during performances.

In Wé society, masks are not static artifacts; their roles and significances can evolve over time. A mask initially used for entertainment might later serve judicial functions or be involved in conflict resolution, reflecting the dynamic nature of Wé cultural practices. This adaptability underscores the masks' central role in mediating between the community and the spiritual world, ensuring harmony and balance within society.

"The border between Cote d'Ivoire and Liberia cuts across several ethnic groups, including the Dan, Wee, Kran, and Grebo. In Dan society, dangerous immaterial forest spirits are translated into the forms of human face masks. Whether or not they are worn, such sculptures are spiritually charged. Male performers, gle-zo, experience a dream sent by the mask spirit that allows them to dance it. In performance, the masks are integrated into the hierarchical system that governs political and religious life."

Source: The MET

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Height: 28 cm / 35 cm incl. stand
Weight: 1 kg incl. stand