African Tribal Art - Dan Mask Ivory Coast

French collection.

Base included.

Weight = 0.4 kg.

Among the most emblematic African masks, one particularly stands out among the eleven types of Dan masks listed by Fisher and Himmelheber. It is characterized by its eyes hollowed out in circles, providing better visibility. These masks, called gunye ge or "racing masks", have an oval face and slightly concave in the center. Made by the Dan of the north, they were specially designed for racing competitions. Other masks, called zapkei, were used to prevent domestic fires during the dry season. Equipped with a stick, their wearers threatened careless women and confiscated an object as a fine. Some masks, called go ge, were distinguished by their very elaborate braided headdress. They were rarely used, reserved for exceptional occasions. Used as an entertainment mask among the Dan of northwest Ivory Coast — also called Yacouba — this type of mask could also appear as a messenger during the circumcision rites of young boys. Furthermore, due to their proximity to the Wé of Liberia (also called Kran), and under the influence of neighboring tribes in Guinea, some Dan masks have been marked by cross-cultural influences. Also note that the functions of these masks may evolve over time.

Piece accompanied by its certificate of authenticity.
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