We (Krahn) Mask – Von Gla – Bush Spirit – Côte d’Ivoire

Wood, metal, fur, fiber, hair, brass bells, pigment.

This mask, which appears to represent a bush spirit, combines many diverse materials to create an image of power. Multiple eyes, two protruding winglike ears, large teeth, and other power symbols such as 5 heavy bells and a beard of authentic animal skin form a fierce countenance that frightens away negative forces.

The Krahn are an ethnic group of Liberia and Ivory Coast. This group belongs to the Kru language family and its people are sometimes referred to as the Wee, Guéré, Sapo, or Wobe. It is likely that Western contact with the Kru language is the primary reason for the development of these different names.