Description : A face mask with beak like form. Ivory Coast/Liberia, Dan. 20th century. 11 1/2h x 4 7/8w x 3d.
Provenance: Inventory and Collection from the Estate of Merton D. Simpson. Catalog Notes: Masks are the most important form of art to the Dan people and much of their other artwork derives from their exceptional masks. To the Dan, their masks have the strongest spirit forces. Known as gle, these forces are in the darkest parts of the forest and they long to be part of the human world but cannot until their form is seen. This comes through a dream to an initiated member of the mens society who then recalls the dream to the elders. The elders then decided if the gle should be allowed to come forth in a carved mask. The Dan believes that each gle has its own distinctive personality. Additionally, because the gle comes from the darkest and unknown realms of the forest its unpredictable and somewhat dangerous. Therefore, while a mask is danced, there needs to be an accompanying attendant to control the spirit and interpret its unique speech. For further reading see Rand African Art, Dan-Masks, Liberia and Ivory Coast Masks. randafricanart.com/Dan_Gunyega
Price: 531.25 USDIt's free to register now to view!
Estimate (low-high) : 150 USD-250 USDIt's free to register now to view!
About the lot N° 85 Title : Dan Face Mask Quinn's Auction Galleries, auctioneer, Falls Church, USIt's free to register now to view! Sale title : Estate of Merton Simpson & Multi Estate Ethnographic Oct 1, 2016 Sale date : 01 Oct 2016It's free to register now to view! Sale Reference : Live Sale
