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Face mask
Date: Early 20th century
Maker: Kwele peoples
Medium: Wood, pigment
Subjects: antelope, Funerary, Initiation
Dimensions: H x W x D: 54 x 19.8 x 6 cm (21 1/4 x 7 13/16 x 2 3/8 in.)
Credit Line: Gift of Walt Disney World Co., a subsidiary of The Walt Disney Company
Geography: Gabon

Human features and bongo antelope horns are combined in this Kwele face mask that represents a benevolent forest spirit. It was used by members of Beete, a religious organization dedicated to dealing with crises and countering negative, anti-social behavior, thus ensuring order. Masks were danced during ceremonies and funerary and initiation rites or were hung on the wall of structures built for Beete.

On Exhibit: The Walt Disney-Tishman African Art Collection Highlights
Object Number: 2005-6-97