Mask - Gouro / Ivory Coast

Native to the Center-West of Côte d'Ivoire, the Gouros populations are associated with the Mandé-south languages (denomination used for the first time in 1953 in Dakar) and represented 332,000 people in 1993. The Gouro tribe recognizes itself in Côte d'Ivoire. 'Ivoire by its strong belief in animism, belief according to which, a vital force would animate the living beings, the objects but also the natural elements. Masks therefore have an important place in this society which gives all things and living beings a deep spiritual power. Their aesthetics can be similar to those of Baoulé productions, with fine and finely sculpted features. We will highlight the excellence of the work of the craftsman on the hairstyle as well as the different streaks running through it, reflecting a deep mastery of engraving.