Wood, brass tacks, fibers, iron, pigment, 33 cm high. Anthony 'pere' Moris was one of the first, most prominent collectors. He started his gallery in Paris in 1913, rue Victor Massé. Objects from him can be found in the most renowned institutes and museums around the world. This exceptional early Bete mask is on the cover of an article on his collection. One of the rarest Ivory Coast masks, the prominent nose, bulging forehead and large lips, the raised areas all covered in old brass tacks are characteristic of Bete masks. This mask would have presided over the peace ceremonies after armed conflicts as well as customary justice practices. This type of mask was also shown to prepare warriors offering magical protection by instilling fear and terror in the enemies. (VJ)

Provenance:
Former collection of Anthony Moris 1866-1951, Paris;
Collection Paolo Morigi, Lugano; Docteur Albert, Paris.

Published:
Introduction aux Arts d'Afrique Noire. Marie Louise Bastin p. 149;
African Arts, 1983, Vol. XVII, no.1, p.21, Paolo Morigi;
Special dedication to Anthony Moris in the Arts d'Afrique Noire Nr.46-53, 1983. Comes with a certificate of Paolo Morigi. Cf. From the same workshop a mask is published Neyt (François), "Trésors de Côte d'Ivoire", Antwerp: Fonds Mercator/Mercator Fonds, 2014:80, #47.