This Grebo mask, originating from the Sassandra region in the southwestern part of the Ivory Coast, belongs to the mask-making tradition of the Grebo and neighboring Kru-speaking societies. These masks served as manifestations of supernatural forces during initiations, judicial proceedings, and public ceremonies. Their deliberately expressive formal language eschews naturalistic idealization in favor of a striking visualization of spiritual power - a force that transformed the wearer during the performance. Incl. stand. The mask is dominated by an exceptionally tall superstructure featuring two long, rising horns that converge toward the top, where their tips are joined by a bast cord. Remnants of bast-like bristles on the forehead indicate the original inclusion of organic materials, which enhanced the mask's lifelike quality. The oval face is symmetrically structured by a long, straight nose. Flanking it on either side are four cylindrical, stamp-like projections; these rise higher than the bridge of the nose, defining the distinctive sculptural aesthetic of Grebo carving. The lower half of the face features a pattern of regular triangular perforations that likely served both decorative and functional purposes. A prominent, open mouth revealing two rows of teeth lends the mask an imposing presence, while broad grooves extending from the corners of the mouth to the edges of the face heighten the composition's dynamism. Traces of red and blue pigment offer a glimpse of the original coloration. A cord attached to the chin, along with signs of abrasion and wear, bears witness to the object's long history of ritual use. Selected Bibliography Himmelheber, Hans: *Die Kunst der Elfenbeinküste*. Munich, 1964. Fischer, Eberhard / Homberger, Lorenz: *Die Kunst der Elfenbeinküste*. Zurich 1979. Boone, Sylvia Ardyn: Radiance from the Waters: Ideals of Feminine Beauty in Mende Art. New Haven 1986. Cole, Herbert M.: Icons: Ideals and Power in the Art of Africa. Washington D.C. 1989. Kerchache, Jacques / Paudrat, Jean-Louis / Stéphan, Lucien: L’Art africain. Paris 1988. Informant: Bakari M*A*Z*1*6*4*9*0* 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.