Nyabwa mask Bété/Guéré 'Spider' - Liberia (No reserve price)





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Masque Nyabwa Bété/Guéré "Araignée" from Liberia, carved in wood and horn, attributed to the Bété and Guéré peoples, measures 30 × 21 × 18 cm, in excellent condition and sold without a stand.
Description from the seller
Impressive Nyabwa mask, linked to the artistic traditions of the Bété and Guéré peoples of Ivory Coast. This type of mask is sometimes referred to as a “spider mask,” due to its spectacular composition made of multiple excrescences and radiating forms.
The sculpture features a very dense and expressive construction: the various carved elements interlock around the face and create a powerful sense of movement. The strongly emphasized volumes, incised motifs, and dark brown patina reinforce its archaic and sculptural character.
Masks from this region can be associated with ceremonial contexts, community protection, and the expression of spiritual forces. However, precise attribution and ritual function should be treated with caution in the absence of collected information or documented provenance.
A particularly decorative and impressive piece, representative of the expressive strength of West Ivorian sculpture.
Sold without base.
Impressive Nyabwa mask, linked to the artistic traditions of the Bété and Guéré peoples of Ivory Coast. This type of mask is sometimes referred to as a “spider mask,” due to its spectacular composition made of multiple excrescences and radiating forms.
The sculpture features a very dense and expressive construction: the various carved elements interlock around the face and create a powerful sense of movement. The strongly emphasized volumes, incised motifs, and dark brown patina reinforce its archaic and sculptural character.
Masks from this region can be associated with ceremonial contexts, community protection, and the expression of spiritual forces. However, precise attribution and ritual function should be treated with caution in the absence of collected information or documented provenance.
A particularly decorative and impressive piece, representative of the expressive strength of West Ivorian sculpture.
Sold without base.

