African Art & Wonders: A Collection of Cultural Treasures. In partnership with BAIAS Arte. sessione unica
lunedì 7 aprile 2025 ore 14:00 (UTC +01:00)
An African 'Gunyege' mask
An African 'Gunyege' mask
Liberia - Dan people
Carved wood with shiny black patina and traces of encrusted patina with kaolin around the eyes.
This type of mask, commonly known as 'racing masks', embodies the supernatural spirit Gle, secret god of the forest and tutelary deity of the Dan people, now skilled farmers but in recent past fearsome warriors.
Gunyege masks are worn by the young members of the community in foot races held on special occasion. The fastest young men, at the end of the race, is awarded with this powerful mask as a trophy.
cm 21.5x13

