-40%

DAN AFRICAN PASSPORT MASK YILOU PO MASK

$ 79.2

Availability: 100 in stock
  • Restocking Fee: No
  • Tribe: Dan
  • Condition: good used condition
  • Item must be returned within: 14 Days
  • All returns accepted: Returns Accepted
  • Return shipping will be paid by: Buyer
  • Refund will be given as: Money Back

    Description

    DAN PASSPORT MASKS
    PORTRAIT MASKS
    Miniature Masks
    MA GO
    YILOU PO
    GBA PO
    NYONKULA
    Passport masks are made by every culture in West Africa, but the Dan complex produces more than any other people. Like their larger counterparts they are powerful charms, filled with spirit, with potential for good or evil. But while the full-sized masks are made for display in public ceremonies, the passport masks are not performed and are usually hidden from prying eyes. They may be kept in the compound or on a personal shrine. They can be worn on the arm or around the neck as an amulet to protect the owner when he is hunting or making war. They are carried about the person when traveling; hence the term ‘passport’ mask. Another source for the term ‘passport’ may be their use as ‘stepping stones’ at Dan secret society initiations (Liberia/Ivory Coast). Small masks are placed as obstacles on the path leading to the meeting place; aspiring members must pay to have them removed.
    This fine example measures 2.75“ long and 1 and 5/8“ wide.