Vintage Dan-Kran Style African Wood Mask, Liberia, Approx. 9.5 in For Sale

A striking old hand-carved wooden face mask that, based on comparison with museum and sale-house examples, is most consistent with the Dan-Kran/Mano masking traditions of Liberia, part of a closely related cultural region extending into western Côte d’Ivoire.The mask measures approximately 9.5 inches tall and about 5–5.5 inches wide. It has a high rounded forehead divided by a central ridge, narrow horizontal slit eyes, a long angular nose, projecting ears, small mouth and a deeply hollowed reverse. Numerous old perforations run around the perimeter and would likely have served to attach fiber, cloth, raffia or other elements of a larger masquerade costume.Comparable Dan and Dan-Mano masks with slit eyes were associated with a variety of community and ceremonial roles. This example resembles the broader “gentle” or deangle-type visual tradition, but the precise mask identity and ceremonial function cannot be confirmed without its original costume and provenance.Based on its construction, wear and comparison with documented examples, I believe this piece most likely dates to the first half to middle of the 20th century, roughly the 1930s–1960s. This is a research-based attribution rather than a formal authentication or laboratory dating.The mask has substantial age-related character throughout, including a dark weathered surface, cracking and craquelure, abrasions, surface pitting and erosion, small chips and losses, and extensive wear to both the front and carved interior. The rim retains numerous attachment holes. Please study all photographs closely, as the aged and worn surface is an important part of the piece.An evocative piece of West African carving with a strong sculptural presence, particularly interesting for a collection of African art, ethnographic material or historic masks.I have researched this item to the best of my ability, but I am not an expert and cannot guarantee the accuracy of the identification, age, materials, or other historical details. Please review the photos and conduct your own research before purchasing.