Description:

West Africa, Liberia, Dan, ca. early 20th century CE. A finely carved and nicely aged Dan passport maskette, replete with all the characteristic features of Dan masks including a concave face, high-domed forehead, upturned nose, pointed chin, and protruding mouth. This example shows some features shared by Deangle masks worn by intermediaries who link the village with the forest initiation camp, most notably the ridge in the middle of the forehead and slit eyes; however, given its small size, it was most likely intended to be a passport maskette. Similar masks were created throughout the country, but this example is most likely a Southern mask as it presents a rougher patina that is achieved by applying vegetal pigments. Perforations line the periphery presumably once used for attachments. A lovely example! Size: 3.25" W x 5.75" H (8.3 cm x 14.6 cm)

Provenance: Ex- Adeon Gallery, Nick Poolos, Chicago, IL acquired before 1970.

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#113221

  • Condition: Some surface wear with a rough patina as is typical of examples from the southern region due to the application of vegetal pigments.

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May 12, 2016 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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