Yohure (Snan, Yaoure, Yaure), Côte d’Ivoire

Lomane mask. The Yohure people, 20,000 in total, settled in the central region of the Côte d’Ivoire, between the Baule to the west, the Guro to the east and Lake Kossou to the north. They are divided into three main groups living in approximately twenty villages scattered over a rich savannah where baboons, bush-cows, deer and elephants are hunted. Their art is influenced by their powerful neighbors, the Baule and the Guro. Nevertheless, they possess a strong sense of identity and have evolved a refined art. Typical is zigzag pattern on both sides of the face. The majority of Yohure masks play a fundamental role in restoring order to a society deeply distressed by bereavement. This mask with a depiction of a hornbill is called lomane, which means “bird” in the Baule language. It takes part in funeral ceremonies and in some other occasions.

Material:  wood

Size:   H. 16”, W. 7”, D. 5”