Fabulous Tribal African Dan Mask

Description

This is a rare and Fabulous Tribal African Dan Mask worm at a pre-war ceremony. Circa 1940’s mask from Ivory Coast. Several owners. Became part of collection from prominent private San Diego collector who bought in Africa in the late 60’s. Then sold yo another collector in the 80’s and sold at his estate sale after his passing in 2011. A Dan mask is a sacred object and used for protection, and a channel for communication with the spirit of that mask and goes into a trance and speaks in the language of that spirit which is interpreted by a wise man in the village. Raffia, feathers and fur are often used in these masks. This one is superb in its expression with slit eyes, sharp nose and full downward protruding lips. Animal monkey fur as mustache and at forehead. There are cowrie shells, fabric around the face, braided rope, brass sheeting and fur adornments are in the carved wood mask. And the holes on side of face would have held raffia strands and feathers for a full headless mask. The mask speaks for itself. A truly arresting and mesmerizing mask. 10” wide, 6” depth, 17” high. Condition is "Used". Wear consistent with age. Few scuff and scrape marks, and bent sheeting. Shipped with USPS Priority Mail.