Antique Ivory Coast West Africa Dan Mask Ceremonial Artifact Cowry Shells rare

Description: This Antique Ivory Coast West Africa Dan Mask Ceremonial Artifact is an authentic piece of art. Crafted from fabric and wood, it displays a mix of gray and brown tones. • Antique West African artifact • Authentic Dan Mask from Ivory Coast • Crafted from fabric and wood • Exhibits gray and brown tones Authentic - Came from a local estate (see others listed) Info from google: Dan people classify surroundings into two realms - the village with all inhabitants (human realm), and the forest (bon) (spirit realm) where the spirits reign, and wild animals roam freely. The forest is regarded as sacred, and crossing the boundary between the human realm, and the spirit realm, may only be done by saying a prayer and wearing materials from both worlds. This creates a link between the two realms. The mask depicted to the left is a perfect example of the materials. These types of masks are made and worn exclusively, by male dancers and only carved by initiated members of the male Poro society. The mask served to protect the young initiate against destructive or evil forces from the time of initiation, till he one day enters the spirit realm. Once the male mask dancer dons the mask, he is transformed into a spirit. The mask dancer goes into a deep trance during rituals and brings forth messages of wisdom from his forebears. The messages is inaudible and in uncontrollable utters, a wise man accompany the dancer during the ritual and translates the messages. The messages are often words of great wisdom, prescribing a way of life that will lead to longevity, health and prosperity. The cowry shells not only represent a decorative function, but also indicate that the sprits have blessed the young initiate with wealth. (In the past cowry shells was used as money). The feathers signify beauty and the ability to take flight if danger arises. An important feature of initiation masks is that ears are not represented. Boys enter training at a young age and remain at the training camp for several years, until they are initiated as adults into society. A portion of the young men's training consists of tribal tradition, principals and moral values. A spirit who wants to be given a bodily form visits these initiated males in a dream. Following the dream, the adult males have to give life to the spirit, in the form of a mask. Before the actual carving process the adult male cleanse himself, then sets off to the forest to find a suitable piece of wood. When he reaches the initiation camp, he commences with the carving. On completion of the mask, he carefully plans the song, music and dance, which are to accompany the initiation ceremony. After the initiation ceremony the young man heads off home and is now ready to enter into serious relationship with the young women of marital age that will eventually lead to marriage. The mask will remain in the family and community for years, and will eventually be passed down through the generations. Condition: Pre-Owned Good feathers are worn with average age wear as shown in photos "Power Selling Mom Consignment"

Price: 625 USD

Location: Punta Gorda, Florida

End Time: 2024-12-03T19:18:41.000Z

Shipping Cost: 5 USD