DAN, MASK 51, 9", $300, Liberia and Ivory Coast
Dan masks are usually used by male associations for rituals, education, social control and entertainment. Masks were thought to embody the most powerful of spirit forces called gle. Each gle has its own character. They brought control and order to village life. There are several distinctly different types of Dan masks.
This mask has the form of a Gunyege mask but is a modern example in metal and was probably never worn. The mask has the eye and other openings black as they appear when hung.
GUNYEGE MASKS
Round eyed masks are used in racing games and ceremonies in which the masked spirit must compete against unmasked runners. If the wearer lose the race, it means the spirit has deserted that person and the mask goes to the winner, as a trophy to wear in the next race.