Yannang “Gagon” mask — Wé/Guéré, Côte d’Ivoire — African tribal art — Ref. 13

Description

This Yannang mask, also known as Gagon, comes from the Wè/Guéré ethnic group, located in Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia. It belongs to initiatory societies and was used in rites of justice and community protection. This type of mask embodies forest spirits that intervene in the social and spiritual order of the village.
With its elongated and curved form, it is distinguished by an imposing dorsal crest, a face with slit eyes rimmed with metal and a lower section covered with cloth, testifying to prolonged ceremonial use. These elements express strong symbolism of power and mystery. The wood has a deep matte patina, a sign of exposure to various rituals, and the worn cloth attests to its age and authenticity.
This mask may be dated to the first half of the 20th century and constitutes a rare object of Wè statuary.

Technical details

Type of piece

Masque

Category

Masks

Ethnic group

Wé/Guéré

Country

Côte d’Ivoire

Materials

wood, peau, iron

Dimensions

H 30 × W 17 × D 44 cm

Weight

1,6 kg

Estimated dating

second half 20th c.

Laboratory test

Not tested

Reference

13