Guro Mask- Hornbill bird Parched

Description

Masks are a window into the soul of a culture, and provide us with great conversation pieces for the home. African masks are possibly the most admired and well known art form of Africa. They are both idea and form. The artistry of African masks is self evident but, for the people who create them, they have a much deeper meaning than surface beauty. African Masks are believed to embody the spirit and symbolize a message of wisdom, prosperity, security, and power. Stylish elements in a mask’s looks are codified by the tradition and may either identify a specific community or convey specific meanings. Putting on a mask is a transformative experience. It allows us to be someone we’re not for a moment, changing both how we see ourselves and how we behave outwardly. Many of us know this feeling from Halloween in America, but it’s a universal feeling shared across cultures throughout human history.

“Guro masks of Ivory Coast are known for a beauty in carving and design across the world. The masks are thought to give their wearers spirit powers. A skillful combination of transforming human and animal features are prevalent in these pieces, creating unusual combinations. This Guro mask and many of the other masks are representations of the spirit of Gu, the wife of Zamble, a supernatural being. Guro masks originate from the west coast of Africa especifically from Ivory Coast. The daily life of the Guro is dominated by secret societies called “”zuzu””. Guro masks are elegant, usually long with pointed chins, and generally the most colorful of African masks. Sometimes there are burn marks on them. They are often repainted, so layers of paint are not uncommon. Such masks were danced in various ceremonies. / A well carved Guro face mask topped with a crocodile and bird. The mask is a vintage piece. And its paint appears to have removed with age but the surface is shining. The carved face depicts a human visage with finial details that recall a Guro style”