Guro
Côte d'IvoireElephant Face Mask, n.d.
Not on view
Polychromed wood
Dimensions28 × 12 1/2 in. (71.1 × 31.8 cm)
Gift of Justice and Mrs. G. Mennen Williams, 1973.15
The masks of the Guro people are distinguished by extreme refinement. While the function of this mask is unknown, in many African cultures zoomorphic masks represent the spirit of the animal, and while wearing the mask a dancer harnesses the power of the animal portrayed. Interpretation of the elephant varies throughout Africa, some cultures focus on the animal’s strength, its intelligence and memory, or its loyalty and group cooperation. The elephant is rarely seen in Guro art, therefore this mask’s motif is likely borrowed from the tradition of a neighboring people.
