Dan Guerre Guere Mask Horns Côte d'Ivoire

Overall Condition: Good. Most of our pieces have spent decades on at least two continents, and have been treasured by several owners.   Small splits, scrapes and cracks are a normal part of their patina attesting to their age and extensive use.  We examine each piece carefully when we receive it and report any damage we find in our listings.  Please look carefully at the pictures which may also reveal condition and damage.<span> </span><span>

Damage/Repair:

The Guere or Guerre people are an ethnic group that resides in Liberia and the Ivory-Coast. They are known for their rich cultural heritage, which includes their traditional masks and masquerades.

The Dan Guere mask is a traditional African mask originating from the Dan tribe of Ivory-Coast. It is a type of wooden face mask that is used during important rituals and ceremonies, such as funerals, initiations, and harvest celebrations. The Dan mask is characterized by its smooth, symmetrical features, which are believed to represent the balance and harmony of nature.

The Dan Guere mask is known for its unique features, which include a prominent forehead, elongated face, and a wide nose. The mask is often decorated with intricate carvings and colorful pigments, which are meant to symbolize various aspects of Dan culture and spirituality.

In Dan culture, masks are seen as powerful tools that allow the wearer to connect with their ancestors and spirits. The Dan Guere mask is believed to be particularly potent, as it is believed to be inhabited by the spirit of a deceased Guere warrior.

During ceremonies, the Dan Guere mask is worn by a skilled dancer who is trained in the art of mask performance. The dancer will use the mask to embody the spirit of the deceased warrior, channeling their energy and wisdom to guide and protect the community.

Overall, the Dan Guere mask is an important piece of African art and culture, representing the deep spiritual connections that the Dan people have with their ancestors and traditions. Its intricate carvings and unique features continue to inspire artists and collectors around the world, making it a truly timeless and fascinating piece of art.

One of the most famous Guere masks is the Wee mask, which is used during initiation ceremonies for young men. The mask is characterized by its large size, elongated nose, and wide-open eyes, which are believed to represent the wisdom and strength of the ancestors.

The Kran mask is another important Guere mask, which is used during a variety of different ceremonies, including funerals, initiations, and agricultural rituals. The Kran mask is characterized by its elongated nose, which is believed to represent the wisdom and strength of the ancestors.

In addition to their masks, the Guere people are also known for their music, dance, and traditional clothing. Their vibrant culture has been passed down through generations, and continues to be celebrated and preserved today.

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