We Mask

Liberia

Early 20th c

14 inches high x 10 1/2 inches wide

Ex: Paris, France collection

$ 1,600

Inv. # 3511

This powerful and elaborate We mask was used during initiations, funerals and as an agent of social control. The mask is well carved sharing attributes of many animals with an encrusted patina, old surface pigment and applied animal furs. The mouth is exaggerated with metal teeth, the nose is broad, forehead bulging, and there are two cylindrical projections from the cheeks and coffee-bean eyes.