Large Grebo Female Back Mask on Custom Stand Tanzania

This 6-foot tall intricately carved mask, a representation of a woman with emphasized breasts, offers a glimpse into a mysterious aspect of Grebo culture rarely exposed to outsiders. Specifically associated with the secret women's society, Sande, these masks are worn on the back and danced by women during celebrations such as marriages, anniversaries, and pregnancies. Grebo masks, renowned for their influence on early Western modern art, notably captured the attention of Picasso, who acquired one from his dealer Kahnweiler in Paris. The Grebo style masks, characterized by their geometric precision—featuring a large face, square mouth, prominent forehead, strong nose, and tubular eyes—undoubtedly impacted the development of Western art.

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