Identification Passport Mask
1971.13.0008
Detailed Images
Basic Information
| Artifact Identification | Identification Passport Mask (1971.13.0008) |
|---|---|
| Classification/ Nomenclature |
|
| Artist/Maker | None |
| Geographic Location | |
| Period/Date | Nationalist, 20th century |
| Culture | Dan |
Physical Analysis
| Dimension 1 (Length) | 4.8 cm |
|---|---|
| Dimension 2 (Width) | 3.9 cm |
| Dimension 3 (Depth) | 1.8 cm |
| Weight | 7 g |
| Measuring Remarks | This artifact was not weighed because it is mounted in a case. |
| Materials | Plant--Wood, Pigment |
| Manufacturing Processes | Carved, Staining |
| Munsell Color Information | Dark Brown (7.5 Y R 2/2) -ns |
Research Remarks
| Published Description | INCARNATION OF THE SPIRIT: According to the religion of the Dan, an essential force, called du, animates the world and is present in all things seen and unseen. This force can be made tangible through the creation of a mask animated by a particular spirit. The mask spirits, or mask Du, live in a mountain kingdom where no human has penetrated. They instruct and aid humans, making their wishes known through dreams. Different types of masks include the "fire watch" masquerade, the entertainment masquerade, and the judgement masquerade. (3,4,5,6,7) The Dan also made miniature copies of their masks. Miniatures play a role in initiation. They also may be carried on long journeys by the owner of a mask, as a portable connection to the mask spirit. 71.13.8,9,45,46,47. |
|---|---|
| Description | N/A |
| Comparanda | N/A |
| Bibliography | Fischer, Eberhard, and Hans Himmelheber. The Arts of the Dan in West Africa. Bern: Stampfli & Cie. trans. Anne Buddle. Fagg, William. African Tribal Images. Cleveland, Ohio. Cleveland Museum of Art. 1968, plate 63. |
Artifact History
| Archaeological Data | N/A |
|---|---|
| Credit Line/Dedication | Purchase |
| Reproduction | no |
| Reproduction Information | N/A |