The Dan-Guere Mask includes three type of styles. There is an interesting style that consist of triangular patterns that are contrasted with secondary round shapes. For instance, the cheeks, nose, and eyes form triangular shapes contrasting with the curving forehead and circular mouth. Another style of Dan-Guere has a pointed chin, protruding, tubular eyes, and carved ornaments on the forehead. The final style is characterized by exaggerated human features.
The Dan live in the forest zone of northern Liberia and west-central Ivory Coast. Their masking traditions revolve around puberty initiation rites which introduce boys to the spirits and powers of the forest. Many of these spirits, male and female, are embodied in wooden masks that are used in masquerade performances to educate and entertain. In essence, the traditional Dan society masks function in initiation and entertainment contexts and in the maintenance of social order.
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