Bird mask "geayagle" · Côte d'Ivoire, Dan · ID: 3035782
André Lagneau, Neuchâtel, Switzerland
Antonio Fiacco, Fehraltorf/Zurich, Switzerland
Description
light wood, small remains of black and red paint, traces of fibre at the right eye, of oval hollowed form with regular features, the raised nose bridge merging into a curved beak, eyes and mouth pierced, extreme abrasion of paint, surface structure with strong traces of insect caused damage, missing part at the back of the rim, crack (forehead), base;
the “geayagle” mask got its name from a friendly bird, whose appearance is looked upon as good omen, and whose call is said to promise good luck, which is why the mask figure has to be a good dancer and singer. Its a pure entertainment mask, belonging to the great group of the “kagle” hooked-stick mask figures. Its important function is the provision of rowdy entertainment which “heats up” the public and spurs them to wild behaviour.