Anthropomorphic Mask Called Tangagle - Dan Culture, Ivory Coast - First Quarter Of The 20th Century

ANTHROPOMORPHE MASK called Tangagle
Dan culture, Ivory Coast
First quarter of the 20th century
Wood, aluminium, vegetable fibres and kaolin
H.: 24 ; W.: 15 cm (without the locks)

A monoxyle wooden woman's mask with a shiny black patina is carved in an oval shape with a rounded forehead and pointed chin. Its almond-shaped eyes, enhanced by raised eyelids, are slightly openwork and encircled by insets of aluminium and kaolin. Her diamond-shaped mouth, with hemmed lips, is also openwork.
The female figure wears a headdress made of plaited plant fibres, ending in two long locks.

Her name Tangagle means ‘that which brings joy’. She danced during entertainment scenes.

Provenance:
Former Alex Arthur Collection, Brussels, Belgium.

Ref: 5591

Text and photos © FCP CORIDON