Bidspirit auction | War Mask, We / Guere

War Mask, We / Guere People, Ivory Coast - We / Guere People, Ivory Coast: Gelle Mask, commonly referred to as a Guere War Mask. Wild animal horns and cloth over carved wood, with a heavy patina from libations. The form of this mask includes a centrally located disk representing a phallus. Mid 20th century. The mask has a custom-made steel display stand. The Guere and Wè people of Liberia and the Ivory Coast have annual festivals during the dry season, which lasts from November to February. These festivals feature dancing and performances focused on the figure of the gela, which is embodied in the animated being comprised of face mask, costume, and the wearer beneath. The mask seems to erupt in horns and tusks, and conveys great energy. Gela can use their power and strength for both destructive and beneficial ends. Older gela are thought to be able to cause thunder and foulweather. However, Any gela can be called upon to reconcile problems within a community. Guere and We villages are surrounded by the bush, and the people have a reverence for the forest. Both peoples are known as healers, with skilled use of forest plants with medicinal value. These same plants provide leaves that are pounded, mixed with water, and applied to the gela mask in a ritual of activation, imbuing it with the spiritual power and vital energy of the forest. Dimensions: Approx. 16H x 13W x 12D; 32H on stand (inches) Provenance: Private collection. NOTE: Please inspect the photos, which supplement the written description and show the condition of this lot. Approx. 16H x 13W x 12D; 32H on stand (inches) Please inspect the photos, which supplement the written description and show the condition of this lot. Good condition with evidence of use and age. Note: Please inspect the photos, which supplement the written description and show the condition of this lot. NOTE: If documentation is not listed, the lot is sold without documents. Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact the Gallery with any questions prior to bidding.