500 Gallery
Live Auction

Hidden Masterpieces

Wed, Jun 12, 2024 05:30PM EDT
Lot 11

Unusual Bird Mask, Dan People, Liberia

Estimate: $5,000 - $7,000

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $10
$100 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$5,000 $500
$20,000 $1,000
$50,000 $2,500
$100,000 $500,000
African Tribal Art: Dan People, Liberia: A rare anthropomorphic mask with a combination of human and bird features. Carved wood with elaborately braided fiber hair, the human-like face has a tubular eyes and a defined nose, above a fanciful curved beak and protruding, hummingbird-like tongue. The beak is studded with brass upholstery tacks. The mask has an overall black/brown patina, and it's age is estimated as 19th/20th century. It comes with a custom-made steel display stand.

Dan masks embody spirits of the forest who request (through dreams) that masks be made so they can "appear" before the people. A bird mask is considered a harbinger of good luck, and the inclusion of white (metal) on the mask reinforces that message.

Approx. 16H x 9W x 10D, 20.5H on stand (inches).

Private Collection, Massachusetts, Private Collection, New York

Condition

Good condition with evidence of use and age.

NOTE: If documentation is not listed, the lot is sold without documents.

Please refer to our Terms and Conditions prior to bidding. Color fidelity of photos presented is not guaranteed. Lack of a condition statement does not imply that a lot is perfect. Please examine photos, read descriptions, and contact the Gallery with any questions prior to bidding. All sales are final. Winning bidders will be sent invoices from our gallery. Credit cards are accepted for invoices under $1000. Higher amounts must be paid by e-check or wire transfer.

Available payment options

  • Visa
  • Mastercard
  • Amex
  • Diners
  • Discover
  • JCB
  • Union Pay

500 Gallery offers in-house shipping for most items. Shipping cost will be listed on your invoice. Please inquire ahead of the auction if you're unsure as to potential shipping costs or to retrieve a shipping estimate/quote.