Lot A49 - Dan Kran Mask (“Kagle” / “Kaogle”)

Kran Mask (“Kagle” / “Kaogle”)

Dan people, Liberia / Côte d’Ivoire

Wood, metal fittings.
Height: 34 cm.

A finely carved Dan Kran mask of compact, rounded helmet form with strongly sculpted facial features. The domed forehead flows into a broad facial plane with circular eye apertures and a short, triangular nose. Full, rounded cheeks frame the composition, leading to the characteristic projecting mouth construction.

The lower jaw is separately carved and attached with metal rings through lateral perforations, forming a functional hinge mechanism. This movable jaw allowed the mask to animate during performance, enhancing its dramatic and expressive presence. The original metal fittings remain intact and show age-related oxidation.

Kran “Kagle” masks are associated with energetic village performances and entertainment contexts, where movement and exaggeration of expression were central elements. The articulated mouth would have contributed to speech-like motion and heightened theatrical effect.

Perforations along the rim indicate attachment points for costume elements. The surface shows a warm brown to dark patina with areas of wear, abrasions, and encrustation consistent with age and handling.

Condition: age-related wear, minor surface irregularities; articulated jaw functional; structurally sound