Vintage Grebo Mask from Ivory Coast - 29.5" H X 11" W X 6.25" D

The Grebo people create several types of masks and one type is the male war mask which are flat with an elongated nose along with a pair (or more) of tubular eyes. These masks would be used in battles, the dances beforehand, and later during the funerals of fallen warriors. 

This contemporary example has an hour glass shape with small spaced holes around the side edges. The top of the mask has a curved top with a center point and there are raised slanted carvings that are joined at the center and descend to a long slender protruding nose. The eyes are round protrusions with white paint around the black pupils; the mouth is also protruding. It has been painted a brown color on the front with the nose; the slanted lines, the mouth and sides of the eye protrusions are a black color. 

Grebo masks served as inspiration for cubist painters and modern sculptors. This piece would be home in a Mid-Century, Modern, Boho, Industrial/Loft or Coastal Design setting. It is large, well proportioned, and would present nicely as a focal point on a wall in a large room, entry or hallway in a residential or commercial setting.  

Place of Origin: Ivory Coast/Côte d’Ivoire/Liberia 

Date of Manufacture: 1950s-1970s

Condition: Very Good 

Wear: Consistent with age and use. The top of the mask, at one time had plant fiber, where now only the bottom of the stems are seen. Please refer to pictures.

Dimensions: 29.5 in. H X 11 in. W X 6.25 in. D 

Musée du Quai Branly Jacques Chirac

Explore more Masks at Our Taste Design.