African Tribal Art - Dan Mask

Ex-French collection.

African Gela (or Geh-Naw) mask from the Bassa of Liberia, characterized by a sculpted face ending in a point. Touches of red and blue contrast elegantly with the glossy black patina of the wood. The Bassa people, settled on the Liberian coast, mainly around the Grand-Bassa region, saw their culture and art influenced by neighboring groups, notably the Dan and the Kpellé. The Bassa have initiation societies, both male and female. Among them, the Chu-den-zo is at the origin of this type of ritual sculpture. The Geh-Naw, or Gela, mask was traditionally worn on the dancer's forehead, attached to a wicker frame and accompanied by fabrics completely covering the wearer's body. It was used in a graceful dance marking the end of the initiation rite for young boys. Today, these masks are also used during ceremonies welcoming distinguished visitors.

Base included.

This piece comes with its certificate of authenticity.
PS: What does the certificate of authenticity consist of? https://www.galerie-art-africain.com/faq.aspx?qid=8

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