Wooden Dan Mask

sketchfab

The Dan people inhabit the western regions of Côte d'Ivoire and Liberia. All Dan masks are revered; they embody spirits rather than symbolizing them. Characterized by a concave face, a prominent mouth, high-domed forehead, and often a rich brown patina, these masks are unique. The various types of Dan face masks have distinct purposes, serving as intermediaries between villages and forest initiation camps, fighting against bush fires during dry seasons, and participating in ceremonies for peace-making, pre-war events, and entertainment. Over time, many have lost their original functions and been repurposed for entertainment-related contexts, emerging only for festivals or visitor-centered events.