Miniature Family Shrine Mask
Dan Maou, Ivory Coast
Early 20th Century
Provenance: Old New York collection acquired in the 1970’s, then by descent to family member
In the form of a sacred Hornbill Bird, this mask was originally owned by a family of farmers. The mask was kept on the family’s sacred shrine, and helped to protect its owners. It exhibits a thick encrusted patina from numerous libations performed in order to protect the family from harm and to ensure a beneficial harvest of their crops. At the top of the mask the original magic bundle is still intact; it consists of organic materials wrapped in cloth and string. The maskette is in excellent condition.
Miniature Family Shrine Mask
Dan Maou, Ivory Coast
Early 20th Century
Provenance: Old New York collection acquired in the 1970’s, then by descent to family member
In the form of a sacred Hornbill Bird, this mask was originally owned by a family of farmers. The mask was kept on the family’s sacred shrine, and helped to protect its owners. It exhibits a thick encrusted patina from numerous libations performed in order to protect the family from harm and to ensure a beneficial harvest of their crops. At the top of the mask the original magic bundle is still intact; it consists of organic materials wrapped in cloth and string. The maskette is in excellent condition.