Lot A44 - Dan mask

Dan mask

Liberia / Côte d’Ivoire

Wood, fiber. Wooden height: 25 cm. Total height (with coiffure): approx. 40 cm.

An elongated oval mask with a high, smooth forehead and gently tapering chin. The face is finely modeled with arched brows, narrow closed eyelids and a long, slender nose extending toward a small, slightly downturned mouth. The expression is introspective and restrained.

The mask is framed by a braided vegetal fiber coiffure secured along the rim, terminating in thick pendulous raffia tassels on either side. Attachment holes along the perimeter indicate traditional fastening of the fiber elements.

The surface displays a deep, dark brown patina with areas of wear and handling, consistent with age and use. The reverse is hollowed with visible interior oxidation.

Condition: good overall, with age-related wear, minor abrasions and stable shrinkage cracks.