GU mask - Guro - Côte d'Ivoire

Female Face Mask (Gu).
Gu, the wife of Zamble.
Now in my private Dutch collection.

The hairstyle and the scarifications of this female mask, named Gu after the spirit it embodied, reflect the beauty standards by the Guro, Elaborate hair arrrangements express both social status and wealth, since a woman sporting one must rely on the help of fellow women for its creation. Though the mask is no longer performed, Gu once formed a trio with two male characters. The refinement of Gu's facial features stood in stark contrast with her chaotic and turbulent performance.
Slit eyes with eyebrows directly above them.
The hairdo is spreading out in a bowl on top. Delicate nose, mouth and small ears.
Excellent brown patina formed by age and use.
Material: wood.
The mask comes with a custom made base.