Dan Mask; Eastern Ivory Coast, early 20th century

Dan mask; Eastern Ivory Coast; early 20th century.
Carved wood
On base
Measurements: 26 cm.

Mask of the Dan ethnic group, following the synthetic language of the art of this cultural region.

The terms ge and gle are used interchangeably to refer both to the Dan masks and to the occult spiritual forces that inhabit the forest, with the intention of entering the civilized society of the people. Dan belief holds that the only way these entities can manifest themselves is through the masquerade ceremony.