Africain Wooden Ligbi Mask Protruding Plate On The Head, Ivory Coast 1980s

Ligbi mask, with a protruding plate on the head engraved with decorative motifs.
Highlights of blue pigments and kaolin enhance this small mask, satin black patina.
The appearance is austere, geometric and the brightly colored carvings lighten the mask somewhat.
The size and the exaggerated headdress make the object very special.
Height without stand: 35cm

Although the Ligbi, who are native to the Ivory Coast and Ghana, are Islamized, they were influenced by the Senufo
tribal sculpture. They adopted elements from it, which they incorporated into African masks associated with the
do society. This mask tradition was maintained to manifest itself during religious festivals, which are
accompanied by sacrifices and chants, such as at the end of Ramadan to symbolize the breaking of the fast.
Shortly before the festivities, the mask may be repainted and covered with koro, which consists of burnt leaves whose ashes are mixed with palm oil. Red and white clay, henna and cola nut powder embellish the scars, if present, the facial features and the hairstyle.