DESCRIPTION: This mask with its bird like beak, black finish, cowrie shells, and attached raffia is known as a Ge Gon bird mask. The mask has a human like face with an exaggerated bird beak. The eyes appear slightly shut. The mask is concave in the back with holes around the edges for attaching raffia. Except for the four missing shells from the beak, the mask remains in good condition.
GEOGRAPHY / CULTURE GROUP: Liberia, Dan. The Dan people, also known as Gio, of Liberia and Cote d’ Ivoire are descendants of Mande ancestors who settled in area in the 16 Century. The Dan occupy an area far from the coast which resulted in little contact with early explorers, missionaries, and settlers. The lack of outside influence allowed animist traditions and beliefs to exist well into the 20 Century. The Dan are primarily farmers who clear the land each year to grow crops. The Dan people are known for their superb wooden carvings associated with spirits and the supernatural.
