Guro Handpainted Mask from Ivory Coast Africa

Beautifully handcrafted, wooden Guro mask originating from the Ivory Coast, West Africa. The Guro daily life is dominated by secret societies and protective spirits. Guro masks represent supernatural beings, and are depicted as graceful, serene and beautiful. Each mask is similar but unique, with a combination of human traits that are believed to have spiritual powers to preserve the village's way of life. They are the spirit of Gu, who is the wife of their supernatural, spiritual leader Zamble. This mask has the signature long face, almond shaped eyes, finely sculpted nose and mouth, and tattoo marks that distinguish Guro style. The presence of the woman superstructure connotes stability and fertility.

These sacred Guro masks, delicately crafted and colorful, are used and honored during traditional ceremonies such as funerals, animal sacrifices and weddings. Today the Guro honor their ancestors with traditional dance using masks that represents their loyalty to the past. These rituals are a way to pass on tribal history, customs and philosophical beliefs.

This mask is in excellent condition. It has a rich, deep red color with green, tan and brown accents. Overall length is 17 inches. It is 6 inches wide and 5 inches at its deepest. It is approximately 30 years old.