The best known tradition of using
miniature masks were by the Dan
people of Liberia & the Ivory Coast.
These small masks are sometimes
called "Passport" masks due to their
use as identification. They are often
sewn onto a piece of cloth & carried
on the person in a pouch. They are
miniature copies of family masks and
enable the carrier to retain contact
with the spirit embodied in the parent
mask.The masks are used to invoke
benevolent spirits during secret
society meetings. They also demand
offerings from initiates during initiation
ceremonies such as libations. In addition to warding off evil, the minature
masks also serve as witnesses during
initiation ceremonies.
4.25"H x 2.75"W x 1.5"D
The best known tradition of using
miniature masks were by the Dan
people of Liberia & the Ivory Coast.
These small masks are sometimes
called "Passport" masks due to their
use as identification. They are often
sewn onto a piece of cloth & carried
on the person in a pouch. They are
miniature copies of family masks and
enable the carrier to retain contact
with the spirit embodied in the parent
mask.The masks are used to invoke
benevolent spirits during secret
society meetings. They also demand
offerings from initiates during initiation
ceremonies such as libations. In addition to warding off evil, the minature
masks also serve as witnesses during
initiation ceremonies.
4.25"H x 2.75"W x 1.5"D
