African Old Dan Fiber Burnished Wood Mask Liberia

This is an old and rare Dan Mask from Western Ivory Coast and Liberia. They have a great number of masked figures that represent spirits of the bush, and fulfill a variety of social, political, and religious functions. Although eleven individual types of masks can be distinguished by formal criteria, the types cannot be associated with specific functions because the meaning of the masks change over time. The rounded features, delicate carving, and finely polished surface characteristic of Dan masks make them among the most popular and highly appreciated types of all African art. The oval shape of the mask with its finely carved features including the high forehead and strongly protruding mouth with pursed lips indicates that this is probably the work of the northern Dan peoples. The circular eyes that permit unhindered vision on the part of the wearer are characteristic of the mask as well. A fibrous wig and d has been attached to the top of the mask. This wig would have covered up the scarf that the wearer had to wrap around his head as a rule to further conceal the dancer’s identity. This mask is a masterpiece of woodcarving; it is evocative but not imitative of the human form and originally served a sacred ceremonial purpose. All these aspects make the mask an epitome of African art that can be easily embraced and lauded by Western aesthetic tastes.

MASK AND STAND WILL BE SHIPPED SEPARATELY TO PROTECT THE MASK.

COMES ON STAND

Late 20th Century

20.5 Inches Tall on Stand
Mask
10 Inches Tall
6 Inches Wide
5.5 Inches Deep
Headdress
36 Inches Long Fully Extended

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