Painted Guro Mami Wata Mask

c. 1950
$980 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 7.5" D: 4.5" H: 18.0"
Materials
Paint
Wood
Collection #
CAA1468
Estimated Shipping
$75

This brightly-colored painted mask is a dance mask attributed to the Guro peoples of Côte d'Ivoire. The mask depicts Mami Wata, or "Mother of Water," a goddess of water, healing, fertility, and the ocean. A shared deity across north and west Africa, Mami Wata incorporates spiritual practices from Europe and Indian influences and is depicted in a wide range of cultural styles and art forms. A benevolent protector figure, Mami Wata constructs meaning from encounters with overseas strangers and provides a link to neighboring African cultures.

This example shows Mami Wata as a small figure atop a central mask, accompanied by two snakes, a common motif in depictions of Mami Wata. Worn over the face of a performer during dance ceremonies, the Mami Wata mask allowed the performer to act as a medium for her spirit. This mask borrows stylistic elements from Guro depictions of Gu, the beautiful wife of the mythical antelope spirit Zamble, such as the red-painted skin and the placement of the small figure.

Questions? Ask us

What They're Saying

Andrea Goldman | Andrea Goldman Design

“Over the years, I’ve incorporated many pieces from PAGODA RED into my designs. Not only can they balance new furnishings (and often new construction) by feeling more established, but the pieces emanate a sense of rich history, often leaving you wondering where they were in a previous life. These beautiful pieces carefully hand-selected by the team at PAGODA RED, coupled with their unbelievable customer service, make them a must-have for any home.”

Receive our weekly email on design &
creating memorable spaces