Vintage African Tribal Mask - Bété Guéré Wè Tribe - Ivory Coast Carved Wood

Description

View Vintage African Tribal Mask - Bété Guéré Wè Tribe - Ivory Coast Carved Wood with current marketplace pricing, condition, product images and item details. This striking, hand-carved African tribal mask displays the classic, powerful aesthetics of the Bété-Guéré artistic complex. Known natively as a gre or gla mask, this traditional form relies on aggressive, abstracted facial features to represent warrior spirits, invoke protection, and enforce customary tribal justice. This striking, hand-carved African tribal mask displays the classic, powerful aesthetics of the Bété-Guéré artistic complex. Known natively as a *gre* or *gla* mask, this traditional form relies on aggressive, abstracted facial features to represent warrior spirits, invoke protection, and enforce customary tribal justice. The mask features pronounced, protruding tubular eyes designed to project intense spiritual alertness. Curved, tusk-like horns frame a gaping open jaw showing carved geometric teeth, giving the piece a fierce and commanding presence. Traces of historical red and black pigments remain visible within the deeply grooved facial contours indicating that this early 20th century mask was actually put to practical use. Condition Report Authentic Wear & Aging: The piece shows significant honest age and handling wear throughout, adding beautiful rustic character for collectors or home decor. Surface Imperfections: Notable paint loss and pigment fading across the entire face. Structural Notes: Characteristic wood chipping, edge erosion, and superficial cracks are present along the mouth, lower fangs, and rear borders as pictured. Attachments: Sold as-found, without any original secondary attachments (such as raffia fiber backing or metal staples). Please review all high-resolution photographs carefully to evaluate the detailed surface textures and condition markers. Approximate Dimensions Height: 14” Width: 8” Depth: 6” Item will be double boxed and shipped via FedEx with tracking provided. Condition: Used. Category: Collectibles › Cultures & Ethnicities › African › 1900-Now › Masks.

Provenance

Ownership History Not Available

Handmade

Yes

Culture

Bété Guéré

Country of Origin

Cote d Ivoire (Ivory Coast)