Guere Mask, Ivory Coast

Antoine Ferrari de la Salle, Abidjan and Paris
Alain de Monbrison, Paris
Myron Kunin, Minneapolis, acquired from the above on September 24, 2004

Very good condition for an object of this type and age. Nail holes and remains from previous attachments around outer edge and mouth. Marks, nicks, scratches, and abrasions consistent with age and use. Surface varnished. Metal tacks oxidized and partially blackened. Rubbed and worn on reverse. Cylindrical elements carved separately. Fine blackened aged crusty patina, flaking in some places. Remains of red pigment in the mouth. The reverse painted in block letters "DET .. [?]" and with a paper label inscribed: "148".
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

In pre-colonial times, the institution of the warrior-mask - shared by several related groups in the southwestern region of present-day Ivory Coast - was part of a pugilistic cultural phenomenon which according to Duzon (1985: 172) extended "far beyond the immediate stakes of the battle and encompassed a wide cultural field (epic tales, music and dance)".   The various societies governing the communities of the region all boast a history of practices and ideology related to war, in both Krou groups (Guere, Bete, Dida, We) and Mande groups (Dan, Guro).   The warrior mask type probably originated with the We/Guere people, and indeed their masks are the archetype of the style: powerful, elaborate, and deliberately terrifying.

The present mask is of classic type which features a deeply carved, abstract, cubistic face emphasizing an alternation of form and void, and adorned with metal tacks, exuding a strong, forceful energy.  The extensive wear and signs of age to the wood suggest this is a particularly early example, used for a long period of time in situ.