Dan Bassa passeport head - SOLD OUT
A wooden miniature mask of the “helmet” type. The hair is swept back in a series of five plaits from the angled forehead. The face has closed almond shaped eyes, a short nose with flared nostrils and a small, open mouth. The neck is wide and thick and forms the body of the “helmet”.
The Bassa live on the coastal regions of Liberia and share many things in common with their neighbours, the Dan, such as secret initiation ceremonies. Known as Poro for men, and Sande for women, these masks are attached to a raffia cover on the forehead whilst the dancers employ graceful, feminine movements to accompany boys after they have been initiated into the men’s society. They are also worn during festivities, and to welcome important guests into the village.
01040
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 10 x 6 cm
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood
- Country
- Origin
- Tribal art collection France
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
A wooden miniature mask of the “helmet” type. The hair is swept back in a series of five plaits from the angled forehead. The face has closed almond shaped eyes, a short nose with flared nostrils and a small, open mouth. The neck is wide and thick and forms the body of the “helmet”.
The Bassa live on the coastal regions of Liberia and share many things in common with their neighbours, the Dan, such as secret initiation ceremonies. Known as Poro for men, and Sande for women, these masks are attached to a raffia cover on the forehead whilst the dancers employ graceful, feminine movements to accompany boys after they have been initiated into the men’s society. They are also worn during festivities, and to welcome important guests into the village.