Dan

The considerable reputation of the Dan in the artworld is based almost entirely on their output of beautiful and expressive masks. The masks are fairly uniform in style, and most often are found in two sizes: large face masks used for dances and festivals, and tiny "passport" masks kept as personal talismans. The Dan also produce fine, figural "hospitality" spoons, and elaborate wooden "mancala" games, a popular pastime throughout much of West Africa. Though somewhat unexpected, the Dan produce very little in the way of formal statuary, and the few statues that exist are usually female and thought to represent "favorite" wives. Utilitarian objects are either rare, or not distinct enough to attribute.