Personal Miniature Mask (Ma Go)
Arts of Africa
Small, personal masks function as amulets among the Dan and neighboring cultures, linking the owner with a particular spirit force that provides assistance and protection. Normally, they are kept hidden and brought out only during special rituals. When the owner travels, he carries the mask and might occasionally show it to indicate his association with a personal guardian spirit.
MEDIUM
Wood, organic matter, fiber or feathers
DATES
19th or 20th century
DIMENSIONS
4 3/4 x 3 x 2in. (12.1 x 7.6 x 5.1cm)
(show scale)
ACCESSION NUMBER
1995.7.28
CREDIT LINE
Gift of Blake Robinson
CATALOGUE DESCRIPTION
Oval human face. Protruding face with double ridge along center. Eye area at base of forehead obscured by organic matter. Ears (semi-circular) protrude at eye level. Nose slopes upward, tip 1/2" long. Down-turned mouth, protruding lips. Pointy chin. CONDITION: Overall dirt and abrasions. Possible insect damage along one edge. Fibers or feathers embedded in two places, near eyes and near one ear. Chips on rear or both ears. Two holes on edges just above ear level (one hole through, other hole clogged).
MUSEUM LOCATION
This item is not on view
CAPTION
Dan. Personal Miniature Mask (Ma Go), 19th or 20th century. Wood, organic matter, fiber or feathers, 4 3/4 x 3 x 2in. (12.1 x 7.6 x 5.1cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of Blake Robinson, 1995.7.28. Creative Commons-BY (Photo: Brooklyn Museum, 1995.7.28_front_PS6.jpg)
IMAGE
front, 1995.7.28_front_PS6.jpg. Brooklyn Museum photograph, 2011
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RIGHTS STATEMENT
Creative Commons-BY
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