A Rare Vuvi Bwete ritual mask, Gabon, Africa. Carved wooden mask with kaolin clay painted surface and traditional stylized face, large raised brow, almond shaped eyes and incised scars. The first compulsory rite of passage, called the bwete disumba, or the classic bwete or Bwiti, consists of the drinking the concoction of the grated bark of the roots of the Iboga bush. This consumption of the sacred wood results in a temporary alteration of consciousness and hallucination that enables contact with the Great Beyond. During this ritual the public bwete events were spectacular. The masks would emerge from the obscurity of darkness to the blowing of horns, beating of drums, and the light cast by torch bearers announcing the return of the initiates from the bush.The mask measures 14 x 8 inches. A metal display stand can be included for an additional $34.00

Well weathered and worn, fair condition.