Dan mask
€390.00
Dan masks originate from Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia and are iconic objects in West African art.
Traditionally carved from wood, these masks feature stylized features, including oval faces, slit-shaped eyes, and prominent mouths. They are often adorned with materials such as monkey hair, feathers or plant fibers, fabrics, metalwork, and even animal teeth, adding a textural dimension to their appearance and embodying the spirits of the bush.
Dan tribal art masks play a central role in ceremonies and social rituals. They are used in dances and performances to represent various spirits or characters, with each mask having a specific meaning and function within the community. For example, some masks are associated with secret societies and are worn during initiations or rites of passage.
The aesthetics of Dan masks and subgroups such as Maou and Kran also influenced Western artists, notably Pablo Picasso, who drew inspiration from their shapes and lines in his works.
Today, this corpus continues to be appreciated both for its artistic value and its cultural significance, testifying to the richness of African traditions.
Shipping fees
02537
Data sheet
- Presumed dating
- Mid XXth century
- Size
- 21 cm (34 cm with support)
- Ethnic group
- Material(s)
- Wood, accessories
- Country
- Origin
- B. Berete Collection
- Stand
- Included
- Condition
- Excellent
Dan masks originate from Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia and are iconic objects in West African art.
Traditionally carved from wood, these masks feature stylized features, including oval faces, slit-shaped eyes, and prominent mouths. They are often adorned with materials such as monkey hair, feathers or plant fibers, fabrics, metalwork, and even animal teeth, adding a textural dimension to their appearance and embodying the spirits of the bush.
Dan tribal art masks play a central role in ceremonies and social rituals. They are used in dances and performances to represent various spirits or characters, with each mask having a specific meaning and function within the community. For example, some masks are associated with secret societies and are worn during initiations or rites of passage.
The aesthetics of Dan masks and subgroups such as Maou and Kran also influenced Western artists, notably Pablo Picasso, who drew inspiration from their shapes and lines in his works.
Today, this corpus continues to be appreciated both for its artistic value and its cultural significance, testifying to the richness of African traditions.