A Dan Poro Society Mask with Cowrie Shells

Ivory Coast, Dan peoples, early to mid- 20th century, carved wood with rich, black patina, face mask with small rectangular eye holes, scar marks to cheeks, and high relief nose and lips, the head and chin wrapped in fabric adorned with cowrie shells, with metal stand.

HOA 22 x 10 1/2 x 5 in.

From the Collection of the late Robert and Judith Weston, Detroit, Michigan

In Dan society, dangerous immaterial forest spirits are translated into the forms of human face masks. Whether or not they are worn, such sculptures are spiritually charged. Male performers, gle-zo, experience a dream sent by the mask spirit that allows them to dance it. In performance, the masks are integrated into the hierarchical system that governs political and religious life.

Dan masks have been documented as the embodiment of at least a dozen artistic personalities. Among these are Deangle, who ventures into the village from the initiation camps to ask women for food; Tankagle and Bagle, who entertain through a range of aesthetically pleasing dances, skits, and mimes; Gunyege, whose mask is worn by a community's champion foot racers in competitions; and Bugle, who historically leads men into battle.

Information courtesy of the Metropolitan Museum.

Scattered wear to fabric; otherwise good estate condition.