Anthropomorphic bird mask "geayagle" with movable jaw ·  Côte d'Ivoire, Dan · ID: 3041237

Description

wood, blackish brown patina, encrusted in some areas, plant fibre cord, with large curved beak and two rows of jagged teeth, beautiful detail: carved nostrils, slightly dam. (forehead), cracks, abrasion of paint;
present mask falls into the category of “kagle” mask figures and is performed for entertainment. She got her name from a friendly bird, whose appearance is considered a good omen and whose call promises happiness to the people. Therefore the man who wears the mask should be a particular good dancer or singer, and should bless the audience and the organizer of the celebration.

Comparing literature

Fischer, Eberhard, Himmelheber, Hans, Die Kunst der Dan, Zürich 1976, p. 114 f.