Dan Grebo Mask from the Ivory Coast Africa

This is an authentic Grebo mask which was used in ceremonies such as initiation of youth into secret societies and at funerals of warriors, where all the Grebo people were able to see them.

This mask is between 40 and 50 years old and measures 10 inches long, 7 inches across and 4 inches deep. The Grebo art and culture were influenced in a considerable degree by their neighbors the Kran and Dan. This powerful face mask has the distinctive rounded brow, bulbous eyes, exaggerated protruding lips and broad flattened nose which are traits characteristic to masks created by the Dan.

This mask is hand carved from solid wood. It has a wonderful , old dark patina. Rolled fabric stuffed with coarse grass surrounds the high domed brow. Kaolin still appears on the eyes. This mask has a serene and calm appearance, especially the closed slitted eyes were considered an expression of tranquility.