Dan Maou Altar Mask With Comb, Ivory Coast

Dan Maou mask from Ivory Coast, known as the “comb mask,” with significant ceremonial patina; total height 45 cm; in good condition.
It features the famous beak characteristic of this Dan subgroup, the Maous, and a significant shamanic patina created by spraying substances from the mouth—likely beer mixed with millet flour.
The beak has a very sophisticated shape, with double arches—a marvel of carving that I had never seen before.
The attachment holes on the sides are heavily worn, attesting to the mask’s extensive use.Note also the two small pouches attached to the sides, likely containing magical substances.
Interestingly, the nose and mouth are pierced; this is practically invisible from the front. It is intended neither for the dancer nor for the audience, but for the mask itself...which is believed to house a living spirit!
I believe this was originally a dance mask, declared powerful by the shaman and thus transformed into an altar mask—hence the very pronounced ritual patina.