Liberia / Côte d’Ivoire
Mid-20th century
Cast copper-alloy face with cowrie shells, glass beads, textile, and pendant bells
Height: 14 inches (mask only)
This exceptional composite mask belongs to the rich masking traditions of the Liberia–Côte d’Ivoire border region and is best placed within the Dan–We–Guéré artistic orbit. Its long, refined face, narrow slit eyes, projecting nose, and composed mouth give it the calm but charged presence collectors associate with forest-spirit masking from this area. Especially compelling is the cast copper-alloy face—an unusual material choice that immediately distinguishes it from the more familiar wooden examples.
A dense border of old cowrie shells frames the head like a ceremonial coiffure, while green glass beads, aged cloth, and suspended bells animate the lower edge. The result is more than a mask alone: it is a complete sculptural presence, suggesting sound, movement, and performance even at rest.
The mellow surface of the metal, together with the honest wear of the shells, cloth, beads, and bells, gives the piece a strong sense of age and character. The bells, with their non-magnetic alloy bodies and iron clappers, further deepen its performative appeal.
Because of its uncommon construction, the safest attribution is Dan–We–Guéré tradition, a careful designation that places the work honestly within its regional and stylistic world. For collectors drawn to African masks that go beyond the expected wooden canon, this is an especially distinctive and highly marketable example. Custom stand included.
Condition: Good.
Dimensions: (Height x Width x Depth) Overall with stand 16.5 x 10.5 x 7.25 inches; Mask only 14 x 10.5 x 2.5 inches
Liberia / Côte d’Ivoire
Mid-20th century
Cast copper-alloy face with cowrie shells, glass beads, textile, and pendant bells
Height: 14 inches (mask only)
This exceptional composite mask belongs to the rich masking traditions of the Liberia–Côte d’Ivoire border region and is best placed within the Dan–We–Guéré artistic orbit. Its long, refined face, narrow slit eyes, projecting nose, and composed mouth give it the calm but charged presence collectors associate with forest-spirit masking from this area. Especially compelling is the cast copper-alloy face—an unusual material choice that immediately distinguishes it from the more familiar wooden examples.
A dense border of old cowrie shells frames the head like a ceremonial coiffure, while green glass beads, aged cloth, and suspended bells animate the lower edge. The result is more than a mask alone: it is a complete sculptural presence, suggesting sound, movement, and performance even at rest.
The mellow surface of the metal, together with the honest wear of the shells, cloth, beads, and bells, gives the piece a strong sense of age and character. The bells, with their non-magnetic alloy bodies and iron clappers, further deepen its performative appeal.
Because of its uncommon construction, the safest attribution is Dan–We–Guéré tradition, a careful designation that places the work honestly within its regional and stylistic world. For collectors drawn to African masks that go beyond the expected wooden canon, this is an especially distinctive and highly marketable example. Custom stand included.
Condition: Good.
Dimensions: (Height x Width x Depth) Overall with stand 16.5 x 10.5 x 7.25 inches; Mask only 14 x 10.5 x 2.5 inches
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