This Grebo mask showcases a bird-like face with 9 eyes. He has an articulated jaw that is held together by rendered vegetable fiber and leather pieces. The mask measures 18 inches tall and weighs 3 pounds. Stand is not included but one can be added for an additional fee. There is some cracking and chipping, specifically on the back – please inspect photos.
Type of Object
Face Mask
Country of Origin
Ivory Coast
Ethnicity
Grebo
Material
Wood, pigment, leather and vegetable fiber
Approximate Age
Unknown
Height (Inches)
18"
Width (Inches)
7"
Depth (Inches)
8"
Weight (Pounds)
3 lbs
Overall Condition
Some cracking and chipping, specifically on back of mask.
Tribe Information
About the Grebo People
“Unlike the other populations living in Liberia, the Grebo people are not structured by the Poro society. They are ruled by a chief known as Bodio who lives in near total isolation. The characteristic feature of Grebo masks are an elongated nose set between tubular eyes. These masks were recently attributed to a neighbouring tribe, the Kru, who live on the Ivory Coast. Since they have one or several pair of eyes, it is thought they may represent sears.”
Source:
Baquart, Jean-Baptiste. The Tribal Arts of Africa. New York: Thames and Hudson Inc. 1998. Print.
