A Dan or Guere/We Kaogle Mask with Articulated Beak...

Description

A Dan or Guere/We Kaogle Mask with Articulated Beak
Ivory Coast/Liberia, c. early to mid 20th century

An exceptional and perhaps unique kaogle (or kagle) mask of the Dan complex (Guere/We subgroup), conceived as a potent bush-spirit visage. The highly abstract face is transformed by an extraordinarily long crocodile-like snout, the upper element articulated to clap during performance. Projecting tubular eyes sit beneath a broad, brim-like brow; jutting cheeks and nose enhance the aggressive, wild nature of the bush spirit represented. The wood is blackened and white pigment remains at the ends of the eyes, teeth (somewhat darkened on the proper left side), and in faint dots on the snout.

Provenance:
Acquired by the current collection in 1989
Helene and Phillipe Leloup, Paris, France

Length: 20 inches

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