Origin: GURO people, Tibeita, Zuenoula area, Ivory Coast
Material: Wood
Dimensions: H. 63 cm, W. 19 cm
Registered at the RMCA in 1999 as EO.1999.18.73

This mask called Gyela lu Zauli (literally Zauli, daughter of Gyela) depicts a young girl character which has grown in popularity among the GURO. It was sculpted by Sabu Bi Boti.

The GURO divide their masks into two broad categories: masks that belong to artist associations and those under the control of the head of a family lineage. The masks from the 1st category which Gyela lu Zauli belongs to often represent women’s faces. They are used essentially at festivities such as funerals, political propaganda activities, or market gatherings.

One of the GURO masks’ characteristic is the presence of bold, vibrant and sometimes fluorescent colours which is often decried by the defenders of more sober Western conventions. Great care is taken in the sculpture of Geyla lu Zauli’s upper portion, which is strikingly elaborate. It evokes a scene of acrobatics such as those practiced by the DAN (of western Ivory Coast).

All GURO masks are worn only by men and can under no circumstance be seen by women between performances, nor can women ever touch them. Upon his arrival in the village or performance, the dancer’s mask is hidden behind a cloth. Just before he begins to dance, his assistant unveils it to an eagerly awaiting audience.

GURO masks however attract mainly women who are eager to attend dances but who at the same time keep a reasonable distance, as getting too near is always disturbing and dangerous.

Want to know more about the Gyela lu Zauli mask?
Until 3 January 2010 you can visit the exhibition Persona. Ritual masks and contemporary art

Based on the contribution of Anne-Marie Bouttiaux from the exhibition’s catalogue