Dance mask - Dan - Liberia






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€175 | ||
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€100 | ||
€50 |
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A Dan wooden mask from Liberia, dating to 1900–1910, measures 21 × 13 cm and is accompanied by a stand; it has traces of white pigment around the eyes and provenance from Michael Oliver, NY.
Description from the seller
A beautifully carved example of graceful, naturalistic form, embodying idealized Dan features. The serene face is modeled with narrow slit eye openings, carefully detailed relief ears, a subtle median ridge along the high, smoothly contoured forehead, full, well-defined lips, and a delicately pointed chin.
Traces of white pigment remain around the eyes.
Description:
Rich medium to dark brown patina. The upper edge has sustained an old loss and was thoughtfully re-perforated to permit continued attachment and ceremonial use, a telling indication that the mask remained valued and in active service despite the damage. Areas of encrusted deposits and surface wear further attest to its age and prolonged use.
Provenance: Michael Oliver, NY
Seller's Story
A beautifully carved example of graceful, naturalistic form, embodying idealized Dan features. The serene face is modeled with narrow slit eye openings, carefully detailed relief ears, a subtle median ridge along the high, smoothly contoured forehead, full, well-defined lips, and a delicately pointed chin.
Traces of white pigment remain around the eyes.
Description:
Rich medium to dark brown patina. The upper edge has sustained an old loss and was thoughtfully re-perforated to permit continued attachment and ceremonial use, a telling indication that the mask remained valued and in active service despite the damage. Areas of encrusted deposits and surface wear further attest to its age and prolonged use.
Provenance: Michael Oliver, NY
