Passport Mask
Dan, Liberia
Early 20th Century
Previous Collections: Collected in the 1950’s by Franco Monti, Milan. Private California collection
Small maskettes such as this one are called ma go masks. They are carried for personal protection and also used to represent the clan they belong to when they travel outside their homeland. Some examples; such as this one have deep encrusted surfaces from libations; and sometimes charges packed inside the back of the masks for more power. The features on the face are barely visible due to the surface patina; this creates an enigmatic and very powerful presence. This is a very old and fine example.
Passport Mask
Dan, Liberia
Early 20th Century
Previous Collections: Collected in the 1950’s by Franco Monti, Milan. Private California collection
Small maskettes such as this one are called ma go masks. They are carried for personal protection and also used to represent the clan they belong to when they travel outside their homeland. Some examples; such as this one have deep encrusted surfaces from libations; and sometimes charges packed inside the back of the masks for more power. The features on the face are barely visible due to the surface patina; this creates an enigmatic and very powerful presence. This is a very old and fine example.