Lot A35 - Dan Mask - Déanglé Type

Dan Mask - Déanglé Type

Dan people, Ivory Coast / Liberia
Height: 29 cm

Carved wooden mask of Déanglé (Dean Gle) type, representing a female spirit associated with ideals of beauty, moral authority and social harmony within Dan tradition. Such masks were performed in ceremonial contexts accompanied by dance and full costume.

The face is elongated and finely modeled, with narrow slit eyes framed by gently arched brows, a straight projecting nose and a small, slightly pursed mouth. The expression is calm yet dignified, with subtle incised lines accentuating the eyelids and cheeks.

The coiffure is richly adorned with numerous cowrie shells arranged densely across the head, forming an impressive headdress. Additional textile elements are preserved at the rear, and perforations along the rim indicate attachment of costume components.

The surface shows a deep, lustrous patina with visible wear consistent with age and handling. The interior retains traces of use.

A strong and decorative example with particularly elaborate shell ornamentation and refined facial modeling.