Masks of the Dan People
The Dan possess numerous mask figures that embody bush spirits and either fulfill social, political and religious tasks or appear for the entertainment of onlookers. Based on formal criteria, eleven mask forms can be distinguished. Their configuration depending on region of origin, ranges from delicately modeled features to geometric stylization.
Deangle / Tankagle Mask
Female masks with narrow slit eyes can appear on one hand, as the dance mask tankagle for the audience's amusement, or as the singer-mask gle so, which accompanies the "great mask" go ge to demonstrate the power of the influential go society. On the other hand formally identical masks can be identified as deangle, or guard masks, which serve as intermediaries between the circumcision camps for adolescent boys and the village.
Gunye Ge Mask
The gunye ge hold weekly running contests during the dry season. Originally these contests tested the prowess of young warriors. As a rule gunye ge or racer masqueraders wear a scarf over their head which, in some cases, is decorated with leaves or a piece of sheepskin. If the mask has fiber wigs these are entirely concealed.
Zakpei Mask
Appearing during the dry season, the zakpei or fire mask comes to inspect cooking fires and prevent ever-possible threat of extensive destructive fire. They discipline careless women with a switch, knock pots over, and take objects as security for a fine of money. |
