Mask - Dan - Côte d'Ivoire

Dan mask – Ivory Coast

Carved wood, plant fibers, antique patina
French private collection

This high-grade Dan mask stands out for its great formal elegance and especially meticulous execution. The face, with smooth volumes and perfectly balanced, features narrow almond-shaped eyes, a straight and prominent nose, and an open mouth with powerful shaping, giving the whole an expression that is at once grave and inward-looking. The composition is topped by a sculpted hairstyle with geometric decoration, finely incised, reinforcing the figure's nobility.

The presence of a beard made of braided plant fibers, old and coherent, adds a ritual and dynamic dimension to the work. The surface of the wood reveals a deep black patina, glossy in places, marked by gentle and even wear, evidence of ancient and authentic use. The subtle reddish highlights visible in the hollows enhance the visual richness of the mask.

Among the Dan, this type of mask was associated with ritual, judicial, or initiatory functions, embodying spirits that intervene in village social life: maintaining order, mediation, transmission of values and knowledge. The balance between controlled abstraction and stylized naturalism is characteristic of the great ancient Dan masks, sought after for their plastic strength and spiritual depth.

By its quality of workmanship, its state of preservation, its age, and its provenance, this mask constitutes a refined and authentic specimen, worthy of the finest private collections.

Introduction to our expertise firm

Based in Belgium, our appraisal and sales house has been assisting collectors and families for many years, with a simple approach: seriousness, transparency and service. We enjoy a solid reputation among tribal art enthusiasts and are among the leading sellers on Catawiki, where we count ourselves among the oldest merchants (more than 8 years).

We have specialized in and managed the liquidation and dispersal of dozens of family collections, and sold thousands of objects in partnership with individuals, notaries, estates, inheritances, and collection closures. Our track record speaks for itself: several hundred evaluations, with nearly 100% positive feedback.

Pieces that have passed through our hands are today in prestigious collections and, for some, have joined museum institutions. We regularly offer no-reserve auctions.

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