Bété N'gré (Glé) Mask
€220.00
Early Bété N'gré (Glé) Mask – Côte d'Ivoire
Rare Bété mask from the Daloa region with striking expression and exceptional sculptural presence
This remarkable N'gré (or Glé) mask of the Bété culture, originating from the Daloa region of Côte d'Ivoire, belongs to one of the most expressive sculptural traditions of West Africa. Used during public ceremonies, ritual dances, and important community events, N'gré masks played a central role in Bété society, embodying authority, protection, and spiritual power.
The mask immediately commands attention through its bold construction and remarkable balance of form. The prominent tubular eyes, powerful arched brows, sculpted facial projections, and wide open mouth create a dramatic expression characteristic of the finest early Bété masks. This dynamic stylization gives the sculpture an exceptional visual impact while maintaining harmonious proportions.
The surface displays a fine aged patina, enriched by authentic traces of use, natural polishing, and consistent wear across the raised areas. Small perforations around the edges indicate its original attachment to a fiber costume worn during ceremonial performances.
N'gré masks are among the most iconic creations of Bété art. Their bold aesthetic, combining realism with abstraction, has played a significant role in establishing the international reputation of Ivorian sculpture and continues to be highly sought after by collectors of early African art.
With its refined execution, commanding presence, and authentic aged patina, this mask represents an outstanding example of traditional Bété sculpture and an important addition to any collection of West African tribal art.
02668
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 25 cm (35 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, metal
- Country
- Origin
- Gygax collection, Switzerland / Belgium
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
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Early Bété N'gré (Glé) Mask – Côte d'Ivoire
Rare Bété mask from the Daloa region with striking expression and exceptional sculptural presence
This remarkable N'gré (or Glé) mask of the Bété culture, originating from the Daloa region of Côte d'Ivoire, belongs to one of the most expressive sculptural traditions of West Africa. Used during public ceremonies, ritual dances, and important community events, N'gré masks played a central role in Bété society, embodying authority, protection, and spiritual power.
The mask immediately commands attention through its bold construction and remarkable balance of form. The prominent tubular eyes, powerful arched brows, sculpted facial projections, and wide open mouth create a dramatic expression characteristic of the finest early Bété masks. This dynamic stylization gives the sculpture an exceptional visual impact while maintaining harmonious proportions.
The surface displays a fine aged patina, enriched by authentic traces of use, natural polishing, and consistent wear across the raised areas. Small perforations around the edges indicate its original attachment to a fiber costume worn during ceremonial performances.
N'gré masks are among the most iconic creations of Bété art. Their bold aesthetic, combining realism with abstraction, has played a significant role in establishing the international reputation of Ivorian sculpture and continues to be highly sought after by collectors of early African art.
With its refined execution, commanding presence, and authentic aged patina, this mask represents an outstanding example of traditional Bété sculpture and an important addition to any collection of West African tribal art.