Bete masqueraders perform during burials, at the end of mourning periods, or in honor of the arrival of important dignitaries. Sometimes they, or one of their attendants, carry a lance. This weapon likely relates to the masks original tribal function: a war mask. The face of this mask is composed of geometric volumes that, as independent bodies, seem to emerge from a flat back panel: the forehead, the brow, the mouth. The separate features are arranged in horizontal tiers, interrupted in the vertical only by nose and the horns that emerge from just below the eyes and curve downwards. Two square-shaped holes have been carved into the back panel to allow the wearer to see. There is an intimidating quality that pervades this work, no doubt related to its original function as a war mask. While this mask would have once been worn in combat to frighten the enemy, today it is used to welcome visiting dignitaries. The same artistic features that once put fear into the heart of the enemies now command the respect and admiration of important guests for the cultural traditions of the Bete tribe. While the meaning of this mask has changed over time, the beauty of the forms has remained constant.