African mask Wall Mask Baule Mask-4539

36/15 CM

The masks of a particular family of masks in the Zaouli dance is associated with nature's geniuses. This family consists of two masks that resemble animals, followed by a third that is anthropomorphic and is considered to be the wife of the zamblé mask, known as the Gu. The Gu or Lu represents a young woman who possesses the beauty standards specific to the Guro, including facial scarifications and teeth that have been filed. In the book "Art of the Ivory Coast" by Fisher and Homberger, it is noted that as soon as a mask appears to be incomplete, it is considered "dead" and is no longer used in performances.