Guro (Yaoure) Mask
Ivory Coast
A mask constructed along a vertical axis, the form organised as a compact facial volume encircled by a continuous looping perimeter structure.
Description
Carved from a single wood block, the face is defined by narrow, half-closed eyes set beneath defined lids, a long tapering nose descending to a small parted mouth revealing carved teeth. Small ears are set flush against the sides of the head, and a textured band of crosshatched relief crosses the crown. Fine incised marks are scattered across the forehead and cheeks. The forehead, cheeks, and chin are organised as contiguous planar fields. Curved looping elements project from the perimeter at crown, lateral, and lower positions, forming an open framework around the face.
Surface is compact and stable, with exposure at raised elements.
Context
Among the Guro (Yaoure), masks of this type are used within masquerade performance associated with celebration and social ceremony.
Provenance
From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Ivory Coast, 1972.
Details
- Title
- Guro (Yaoure) Mask
- Culture
- Guro (Yaoure)
- Origin
- Ivory Coast
- Date
- 20th century
- Dimensions
- H 34 cm (13.4 in) · W 24 cm (9.4 in) · D 10 cm (3.9 in)
- Medium
- Wood
- Provenance
- From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Ivory Coast, 1972.
- Condition
- Surface stable; exposure at raised elements.
