Africa, Ivory Coast, northern Dan territory, Gagon, ca. early 20th century CE. A well-executed Gagon mask presenting a finely carved wooden concave visage with a classic high domed forehead with a crown of cowrie shells and extending braids of natural fibers, narrow slit eyes surrounded by hammered metal, painted red details on the face, a dramatic long beak-like nose and protruding mouth with a beard of black and red monkey fur, metal, and hide attachments, and a full textile headdress. The gägon (also called ge gon) mask is today is used to entertain the villagers accompanied music, typically by drummers and singers. Originally, however, the gägon masquerade sang songs and chanted proverbs in order to teach the community about the significance of the hornbill, the bird represented by the gagon mask who regarded as the first being created by Zla, the creator god of the Dan. Size: 15" H (38.1 cm)

All tribal examples have been vetted and are guaranteed authentic tribally used pieces and not tourist items.

Provenance: Ex- Adeon Gallery, Nick Poolos, Chicago, IL acquired before 1970.

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#113227

Textile cape shows great wear with tattered edges, mask itself quite excellent