Early Bété N'Gré (Glé) mask – Côte d'Ivoire – Wood, leather and metal

Early Bété N'Gré (Glé) mask – Côte d'Ivoire – Wood, leather and metal

Origin: Côte d'Ivoire
People: Bété
Type: N'Gré (Glé) face mask
Materials: Carved wood, leather, iron, metal studs, pigments and vegetable-fibre cords
Dimensions: Height (including original iron hook): 30 cm - Overall height with custom metal display stand: 38 cm
Period: First half of the 20th century (attributed)
Provenance: Former French private collection
Custom display stand: Included

A remarkable old Bété N'Gré (Glé) mask from Côte d'Ivoire, distinguished by its powerful sculptural conception, exceptionally balanced composition and fascinating evidence of traditional use.

Carved from a substantial piece of wood, the mask presents a striking architecture of projecting volumes, arranged with an almost perfect sense of symmetry.

The broad, overhanging forehead is underlined by a continuous row of small rounded projections. Beneath it, two narrow horizontal eye openings give the face an intense, enigmatic expression.

The prominent triangular nose forms the central axis of the composition. Four powerful, curved, horn-like elements extend diagonally across the cheeks, converging towards the centre of the face. These sharply defined forms create a dramatic interplay of light, shadow and negative space.

Small metal studs, apparently belonging to the old decorative arrangement, punctuate the projecting elements. Traces of blue and violet pigments remain visible around the cheeks and lower face, providing subtle contrasts with the predominantly earthy brown and darkened surfaces.

The mask's impressive visual strength is achieved through an extraordinary balance between sculptural mass and open space. Despite its complex construction, the overall composition remains remarkably harmonious.
Masks of the N'Gré or Glé type belong to one of the most expressive traditions of Bété sculpture. Their powerful, sometimes intimidating appearance combines human and animal features and has historically been associated with masked performances, protective forces and important events in community life.

This particular example is also of considerable ethnographic interest because of the surviving elements associated with its former use.

The upper section retains remnants of an old leather covering, together with an iron loop and an opening at the crown. An old indigenous repair, secured with an iron staple, is visible on the upper part of the reverse.

Around the perimeter, a series of small perforations and surviving vegetable-fibre cords testify to the former attachment arrangements. The deeply hollowed interior displays a convincing old usage patina, with areas of wear and smoothing consistent with prolonged handling and wearing.

The exterior surface presents a rich and complex patina, combining polished areas, accumulated deposits, faded pigments and natural wear. These varied surface characteristics reinforce the historical and ethnographic character of the object.

An unusually expressive Bété mask, appreciated for the exceptional balance of its sculptural masses, its strong frontal presence, surviving traditional attachments and compelling old patina.

Condition

Old condition, with significant wear consistent with age and use.

Surface abrasions, small chips, old cracks, localised losses and irregularities throughout.

Remnants of the former leather covering are preserved on the upper section, although the leather is incomplete and worn.

An old iron-staple repair is visible on the upper reverse.

Traces of former pigments and small metal decorative studs remain.

Old vegetable-fibre attachment cords are partially preserved, with wear and fraying.

The interior displays clear evidence of former use.

The principal sculptural elements remain well preserved, including the projecting forehead, eyes, nose and curved facial extensions.

Please examine the photographs carefully, particularly those showing the reverse, upper section and side profiles, as they form an essential part of the condition description.

Included

Custom-made metal display stand included.