This Bété mask from the Guibéroua region in southwestern Côte d'Ivoire is one of the most striking examples of Bété expressive mask art. Unlike the idealized face masks of the neighboring Baule or Guro peoples, Bété masks aim to visualize supernatural power. Used during initiations, communal rituals, and ceremonial dances, they embodied spiritual beings whose appearance offered protection, affirmed social order, and simultaneously inspired awe. incl stand. The mask is dominated by a massive forehead section, its block-like form articulated by vertical grooves. The horizontally stepped forehead is framed at its edges by regularly spaced, knob- or rivet-like projections that continue as an ornamental motif across the entire composition. Beneath this powerful forehead, deep-set, slit-like eyes emerge; their minimalist design creates an impression of concentrated vigilance. A large, slightly curved nose forms the central axis of the mask. Two massive, upward-curving horns emerge from its sides, their surfaces bearing the same relief ornamentation found on the forehead and the bridge of the nose. The chin area continues this motif, transitioning into another pair of horns that project forward; this creates a symmetrical four-horn composition that dramatically stages the transition between human and animal forms. The beak-like, slightly open mouth reinforces the mask's hybrid character, while a chin beard made of woven raffia and a raffia cord attached to the back of the head point to its original integration into a complete masquerade costume. A lustrous patina and slight signs of wear bear witness to the object's long history of ritual use. Selected Bibliography Himmelheber, Hans: Die Kunst der Elfenbeinküste. Munich 1964. Fischer, Eberhard / Homberger, Lorenz: The art of the Ivory Coast. Zurich 1979. Vandenhoute, Claude: Masques and traditional societies of Côte d'Ivoire. Paris 1975. Kerchache, Jacques / Paudrat, Jean-Louis / Stéphan, Lucien: L’Art africain. Paris 1988. Cole, Herbert M.: Icons: Ideals and Power in the Art of Africa. Washington, D.C. 1989. Informant: Bakari M*A*Z*1*6*9*0*2* The seller guarantees and can prove that the object was obtained legally. The seller was informed by Catawiki that they had to provide the documentation required by the laws and regulations in their country of residence. The seller guarantees and is entitled to sell/export this object. The seller will provide all provenance information known about the object to the buyer. The seller ensures that any necessary permits are/will be arranged. The seller will inform the buyer immediately about any delays in obtaining such permits.