face mask for Deangle masker
face mask for Deangle masker
Culture
Dan people
Creation date
early 20th century
Materials
wood, pigment, metal, fiber
Dimensions
9 3/4 x 5 x 3 1/2 in.
Credit line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Eiteljorg
Accession number
1989.363
Collection
Currently On View In
Eiteljorg Suite of African and Oceanic Art
This mask is part of the Deangle masquerade of the circumcision camp. The rough texture on the top of the forehead, in contrast with the smooth surface elsewhere, is evidence of sacrificial materials. These sacrificial materials are an important part of circumcision, the serious event that marks the transformation of a boy into a man.
