African Mask Wooden Hand Carved Vintage Wall Mask tribal african Dan Bird-6695

43.3/20 CM
This striking mask of a bird’s head was made in Liberia mask or the Coast by the Dan mask tribe, or one of their near relatives. It is an unusually ornate example, with a high forehead ,mask a long, curved beak and geometric motifs on the forehead and above the eyes. The form of the eyes and the dark mask patina lend a menacing aspect. The jaw mask , unusually mask , is jointed and secured with leather thongs that could presumably be adjusted. The Dan are a farming tribe, settled in the semi- wooded areas of Liberia and the Coast. Much of their mythology and social structure is based upon the forest and its fiercer creatures – the Leopard Society is the main organ of social control. For example, initiates spend up to four months