A Dan Mask, "tankagle" Lot n° 22

Mask, "tankagle Dan-Gio, Côte d'Ivoire, Liberia Mit Sockel / with base wood. H 24,5 cm. Provenance: - Gallery Walu, Zurich, Switzerland. - Koller Auctions, Zurich, Switzerland. 28.06.2010, lot 1637. - Charles Deprez (1938-2018), Lutry, Switzerland. - Charles Deprez family (2018), Lausanne, Switzerland. - Hammer Auction 117, 17.08.2023, Lot 11 (cancelled sale / Canceled sale). Because the use and meaning of the masks, in addition to the differences that have always existed geographically, changed over time, subsequent statements about the use at the time are sometimes difficult. There is much to suggest that this was a tankagle ("pantomimic dancing masked figure"), which entertained its audience at festivals by varied dancing, singing or performing small scenes. She could perform with orchestra and singers as well as individually with an accompanist. On the other hand, it could also be a mask called deangle, which belonged to the circumcision camp and was a mediator between initiates and the village. These masked figures moved gracefully, joked with the women and asked them to send abundant food to the camp. Further reading: Fischer, Eberhard / Himmelheber, Hans (1976). The Art of Dan. Zurich: Museum Rietberg. CHF 2 000 / 4 000 The condition (wear, eventual cracks, tear, other imperfections and the effects of aging etc. if applicable) of this lot is as visible on the multiple photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Please feel free to contact Hammer Auctions for all questions you might have regarding this lot (info@hammerauktionen.ch). Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Hammer Auctions shall have no responsibility for any error or omission. In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Hammer Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item. ------------------------------------ The condition (any wear, signs of use, cracks, any other deterioration and the signs of age etc.) of this lot can be seen in the photos we have uploaded for your documentation. Hammer Auctions will be happy to answer any questions you may have about this item (info@hammerauktionen.ch). Any statements regarding the condition of the items made as a matter of fact to prospective buyers are opinions only and should not be treated as statements of fact. Hammer Auctions assumes no responsibility for any errors or omissions. In the rare event that the item does not match the description in the catalog, Hammer Auctions is here to help. Buyers may return the lot for a full refund, provided they notify Hammer Auctions within 5 days of receiving the lot.