Gagon Hornbill bird-form mask, all hand carved from a single piece of wood from the Dan (Gio/Yakuba) people of Western Africa - Ivory Coast and Liberia. Tin/iron eye lids. Characteristic form and type of mask of the culture. Masks for the Dan people were used by males for rituals, education and instruction, social control and entertainment. They were thought to embody the most powerful of spirit forces called gle. Each gle has its own specific character. They used to bring control and order to village life. Gagon masks specifically are masks with a large bird beak form and an attached beard of monkey fur. Original antique artifact. Circa 19th century/very early 20th century. Provenance: From the prominent Gordon Lankton collection of African art. Measurements: Approx. 12" x 8.5" x 6.25" overall | See our special $5 starting bid lots at the end of this auction! No Reserve, No Buyer's Premium! Cost-effective, professional in-house packaging and combined shipping available!