Mask (Primary Title)
Mask, Dan (Former Title)
Unknown (Artist)
Masks made by the Dan people represent forest spirits that are believed to live in the mountains. For the benefit of the community, the spirits take on the form of a mask in human or animal form. They “speak” in growls, croaks, and twitters that have to be interpreted by a person who understands their “language.”
This handsome example still has its original hair attached. Textile garments, fringe, beads, and other accessories were once tied onto the mask through the holes around the mask’s rim.
Adolph D. and Wilkins C. Williams Fund
“Mystery.” Richmond, VA: Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. 6 October -30 December 2007
African Exhibition, Fine Arts Center, Lynchburg, VA. 29 April - 8 May 1979.
African Exhibition, Fine Arts Center, Lynchburg, VA. 29 April - 8 May 1979.
Image released via Creative Commons CC-BY-NC
Some object records are not complete and do not reflect VMFA's full and current knowledge. VMFA makes routine updates as records are reviewed and enhanced.
