Bird mask - Dan Maou - DR Congo

The Dan (or Yacouba) are a West African people, mainly spread across Côte d’Ivoire and Liberia. They are renowned for their mask art, which plays a central role in their initiation rites, their healing ceremonies, and in the transmission of moral and social values within the community. Among their most fascinating masks, the bird masks, used in certain ritual contexts, occupy a special place in their tradition. These zoomorphic masks embody supernatural powers and symbolize the connection between the human world and the spiritual realm.

The 'bird' masks of the Dan/Maou are often characterized by their stylized shape, which combines both human and animal elements. Their visual characteristics include:

Beautiful long, curved beaks, which are among the most striking features of these masks, symbolizing the connection to the world of birds and spirits.

Eyes open and elongated, sometimes very wide and circular, which allows the wearer to have clear vision during the dance and to enhance the visual impact.
Rigid and flat structure, often with relief patterns that may evoke feathers or wings. The masks are often finely carved in hardwood and decorated with natural pigments such as red, black, and white, which carry spiritual meanings.
Size: these masks are generally quite large, often fixed to elaborate headdresses or rigid structures that allow the wearer to support them while dancing. They are therefore suited to ritual performance.
These masks are worn during ritual dances and healing ceremonies, where they serve to establish a connection with the spiritual forces and to communicate with the ancestors.

Discover the power and grace of the Dan Maou bird-beaked mask, a jewel of Ivorian and Liberian tribal art. This mask, recognizable for its long, slender beak and clean lines, embodies the spirit of natural forces and the wisdom of the ancestors. Carved from dense wood, it stands out for its harmonious silhouette and meticulous details, reflecting the exceptional talent of Dan artisans.
The Maou is much more than a decorative object: it is a symbol of protection, mediation, and communication with the invisible world. Used during ritual ceremonies, it dances to soothe spirits, celebrate harvests, or mark important passages of life. Its smooth patina, often dark and gleaming, bears witness to its use and its history, making each piece a unique treasure.
Treat yourself to the emotion of an authentic work of art, where every curve and every texture tells a story. The Dan Maou bird-beaked mask will bring to your space a presence that is both majestic and mysterious, inviting contemplation and respect for ancestral traditions.


Height: 41 cm (base included)
Private collection, France