Mask (Kple Kple or Kouassi Gbe)

This kple kple mask belongs to the first of four pairs of masks that entertain as part of a performance sequence in the goli dance. The male in each pair dances first. The masks are worn by young boys in a rapid stamping dance. The masqueraders alternate with each other and watch their partners perform. The head of the male kple kple is painted red, whereas the female, like this example, is colored black.

The wearer of this mask would secure it on his face by biting onto a (now-missing) piece of rope attached to the back.