This wood mask is an authentic one of a kind mask, hand carved and purchased in West Africa.

The exaggerated features of this Bete mask are meant to frighten potential enemies. This is a war mask worn by tribal men to prepare for battle.

Gre or Nyabwa as it is called, this mask is characterized by elongated face, protruding forehead and mouth and nostrils running up both sides of the face. It was especially useful when the tribe fought war after war. Later, it graced ceremonies where peace treaties were signed after the armed conflicts. However, much later, its function was extended to a variety of ceremonies outside of war. In peacetime, it has extensively been worn for entertainment especially dance ceremonies and also during sessions of customary justice where differences are settled under the watch of the once wrathful mask.

Click here to learn more about the African Bete tribe. Please email info@lotusmasks.com or call us, toll free 1(866) LOTUS-12.

Height: 13.5 inches
Width: 8 inches
Depth: 6.5 inches
Weight: 3.5 pounds
Materials: Wood
Origin: Bete tribe - Ivory Coast, Africa

Hanging Instructions: Two holes are pre carved into the top portion of the back of the mask. String is tied through the holes for immediate hanging.

Care: Dust the piece as needed.

Shipping is automatically calculated by UPS for shipping within the US and Canada. Each piece is usually shipped within 24 hours of the order with the exception of the weekend. If you are in Canada please select "UPS Standard to Canada" for the shipping option. If you are an international customer please select "TNT International Shipping" during checkout. The shipping will come out as $0 and will be added to your order. Please call 203-629-0902 or email us info@lotusmasks.com for a shipping quote. Click here for approximate UPS transit times. Lotus Masks uses Instapak foam injection packing system to insure that all our pieces arrive undamaged. Click here to learn more about Lotus Masks packing.