The Protection of the Gods – Ivory Coast

An archaic mask/sculpture composed of various symbols. In the center of the bottom section are three hollow holes, representing eyes and a mouth; on either side are etched two crosses. The entire mask/scuplture is painted black and white, the former a symbol of power and the latter an association with the gods. In the upper section, a hollow circle mounted on two legs features within it the palm of a hand opened up to the sky.