Helmet Mask – Wood, Shell, Nail – Dan – Ivory Coast

Description

Beautiful Dan helmet janus mask in a very expressive design.
The Dan style is quite evident, with round eyes and large bulging mouth
Good condition with a beautiful aged patina on the wood. Contains traces of libations on top of the mask.

The border between Cote d’Ivoire and Liberia cuts across several ethnic groups, including the Dan, Wee, Kran, and Grebo. 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.

Provenance: Manfred Schäfer, former gallery owner from Ulm, Germany. Including custom made stand.

Object

Helmet Mask

Ethnic group:

Dan

Country:

Ivory Coast

Material:

Wood

Estimated period:

Mid 20th century

Sold with stand:

Yes

Dimensions:

27x22x21 cm

Weight:

2800 gram (with stand)

Condition:

Good condition, used with some signs of wear

Reserve: $150.00

Shipping:

Domestic: Flat-rate of $49.00 to anywhere within the contiguous U.S.

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Location: This item ships from Netherlands

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In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.

Buyer's Premium

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Helmet Mask – Wood, Shell, Nail – Dan – Ivory Coast

Lot 0253

Estimate $200-$250May 20, 2026, 12:00 PM EDT

Starting Price

Secure

$120

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