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Face Mask

A work made of wood.

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  • A work made of wood.

Date:

Late 19th/early 20th century

Artist:

Dan
Liberia
Coastal West Africa

About this artwork

Dan mask performances pertain to social control, political and judicial matters, peace-making, education, competition, and entertainment. The meanings and functions of masks evolve over time; they usually gain prestige as they “grow older.” However, when such a mask appears by itself—without the accompanying costume, other accessories, musical accompaniment, and dance steps—its identity is lost.

Status

On View, Gallery 137

Department

Arts of Africa

Culture

Dan

Title

Face Mask

Place

Liberia (Object made in)

Date  Dates are not always precisely known, but the Art Institute strives to present this information as consistently and legibly as possible. Dates may be represented as a range that spans decades, centuries, dynasties, or periods and may include qualifiers such as c. (circa) or BCE.

1875–1925

Medium

Wood

Dimensions

H.: 18.4 cm (7 1/4 in.)

Credit Line

African and Amerindian Art Purchase Fund

Reference Number

1963.273

Extended information about this artwork

Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.

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