Passport Mask

Dan, Early 20th Century
Provenance: Oscar Agard Collection, Newark, NJ. Acquired in the 1970’s, then by descent.

Produced for personal use, passport masks replicate the forms of masks worn in dance performances in West African societies. Carried on the person, these masks act as powerful charms and protective agents. This enigmatic example’s slightly off-set asymmetry give it a slightly ambiguous presence. Simple, yet powerful each passport mask was produced for a particular individual and therefor their appearance is always distinctive. A deep shiny patina suggests prolonged handling.

Height: 2.75 inches
IN 08-05-15 / SOLD