Mask "bugle"
Georges Frederick Keller, Paris, France (Inventory number “G.F.K. 101”)
Paolo Morigi, Magliaso, Switzerland
Sotheby’s Paris, Collection Paolo Morigi, 6 June 2005, lot 67
Philippe Ratton, Paris, France (2014)
Description
light wood, small remains of brown patina, with tubular eyes and articulated lower jaw, aglets on the forehead and in the area of the snout, inscribed in white paint on the backside “G.K.F. 101”, surface strongly marked by insect caused damage and weathering, minor missing parts, beautiful patina of usage, traces of old age, metal base;
the ethnical group of the Kran is included in the Dan cluster. They often share the same cultic associations and their artistic works are often not to be distinguished from those of other Dan groups.
“Bugle” are warrior mask figures, who prepared men for war or led them into the fight. The costume frequently consisted of feather headdress, dark coloured tippet and raffia skirt.