African Arts Gallery

This former African mask, named Kaoglé, reflects the powerful spirit of a chimpanzee whose strength and malignity will prepare for war or social control, through the judicial function.

Kran, a Dan sub-group established in a minority way in Côte d'Ivoire but especially in Liberia, has prominent reliefs, including a cap-like forehead with a long beak, a long hollow snout and two semicircular sides. The orbital cavities, flat, are pierced in triangles.On the top, three small bells accompanied by their tingle the appearance of the mask. On the chin is a metal tongue retaining long cotton fibers stapled. The Kran practice an animist religion, venerate their ancestors and are organized into a secret society called gla. This mask also occurs today at ceremonies related to harvest, funeral but also during entertainment festivals where he plays an educational role. Heavy wood, beige patina and crusty white. Residue of crusty brown pigments at the top.