Anthropomorphic mask, "deangle" or "tankagle"
Anthropomorphic mask, "deangle" or "tankagle"
Dan-Yakuba. Ivory Coast
Without base
Wood, metal. H 25 cm.
Provenance:
- According to oral tradition: Yves Plantin (1938–2022), Paris.
- Art Auction France, Paris, Dec. 10, 2015, Lot 221.
- Private Swiss collection, Geneva.
Since the function and significance of masks have changed both regionally and over time, it is often difficult to make definitive statements about their original use today.
There is much to suggest that this mask is a so-called tankagle (“pantomimic dancing mask figure”), which entertained the audience at festivals through a variety of dances, songs, and the performance of short scenes. Such figures could perform either together with an orchestra and singers or alone with an accompanist.
On the other hand, it could also be a so-called deangle, a mask used in the circumcision camp that served as a mediator between the initiates and the village. Such masked figures were associated with beauty and grace. They moved gracefully, joked with the women, and asked them to bring plenty of food to the camp.
Further Reading:
Fischer, Eberhard / Himmelheber, Hans (1976). The Art of the Dan. Zurich: Museum Rietberg.
Further reading:
- Fischer, Eberhard / Himmelheber, Hans (1976). The Art of the Dan. Zurich: Museum Rietberg.
- Barbier, Jean Paul (Ed.) (1993). Arts de la Côte d’Ivoire dans les collections du musée Barbier-Mueller. Vol. I (Textes). Geneva: Barbier-Mueller.
CHF 3,000 / 6,000
Weight in grams: 353
Condition:
Hammer Auctions places great importance on providing a careful and as precise as possible description of all lots offered in the catalog.
Each lot is documented with multiple photographs intended to convey as comprehensive an impression as possible of its condition. This includes, in particular, visible signs of wear, irregularities, and age-related changes. We recommend that all interested parties and bidders carefully examine the photographs before submitting a bid, as they form an essential part of the lot description. In addition, we recommend viewing the items in person before the auction, if possible.
All condition descriptions are provided to the best of our knowledge and belief and are based on our professional assessment. They are provided for informational purposes only and do not claim to be exhaustive. In particular, there may be age- or wear-related characteristics that are neither explicitly mentioned nor visible in the photographs. Hammer Auctions assumes no liability for unintentional errors or omissions in the condition descriptions to the extent permitted by law. However, we always strive to resolve any ambiguities or concerns in a transparent, fair, and straightforward manner.
Should a lot deviate in material respects from its catalog description, Hammer Auctions offers a return option in accordance with the following provisions. Buyers may report such a deviation in writing within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the lot. If the complaint is justified, the lot may be returned by mutual agreement. The purchase price will be refunded in full upon receipt and inspection of the returned item.
We are always happy to assist you personally with any questions, additional photographs, or further information.
Anthropomorphic mask, "deangle" or "tankagle"
Dan-Yakuba. Ivory Coast
Without base
Wood, metal. H 25 cm.
Provenance:
- According to oral tradition: Yves Plantin (1938–2022), Paris.
- Art Auction France, Paris, Dec. 10, 2015, Lot 221.
- Private Swiss collection, Geneva.
Since the function and significance of masks have changed both regionally and over time, it is often difficult to make definitive statements about their original use today.
There is much to suggest that this mask is a so-called tankagle (“pantomimic dancing mask figure”), which entertained the audience at festivals through a variety of dances, songs, and the performance of short scenes. Such figures could perform either together with an orchestra and singers or alone with an accompanist.
On the other hand, it could also be a so-called deangle, a mask used in the circumcision camp that served as a mediator between the initiates and the village. Such masked figures were associated with beauty and grace. They moved gracefully, joked with the women, and asked them to bring plenty of food to the camp.
Further Reading:
Fischer, Eberhard / Himmelheber, Hans (1976). The Art of the Dan. Zurich: Museum Rietberg.
Further reading:
- Fischer, Eberhard / Himmelheber, Hans (1976). The Art of the Dan. Zurich: Museum Rietberg.
- Barbier, Jean Paul (Ed.) (1993). Arts de la Côte d’Ivoire dans les collections du musée Barbier-Mueller. Vol. I (Textes). Geneva: Barbier-Mueller.
CHF 3,000 / 6,000
Weight in grams: 353
Condition:
Hammer Auctions places great importance on providing a careful and as precise as possible description of all lots offered in the catalog.
Each lot is documented with multiple photographs intended to convey as comprehensive an impression as possible of its condition. This includes, in particular, visible signs of wear, irregularities, and age-related changes. We recommend that all interested parties and bidders carefully examine the photographs before submitting a bid, as they form an essential part of the lot description. In addition, we recommend viewing the items in person before the auction, if possible.
All condition descriptions are provided to the best of our knowledge and belief and are based on our professional assessment. They are provided for informational purposes only and do not claim to be exhaustive. In particular, there may be age- or wear-related characteristics that are neither explicitly mentioned nor visible in the photographs. Hammer Auctions assumes no liability for unintentional errors or omissions in the condition descriptions to the extent permitted by law. However, we always strive to resolve any ambiguities or concerns in a transparent, fair, and straightforward manner.
Should a lot deviate in material respects from its catalog description, Hammer Auctions offers a return option in accordance with the following provisions. Buyers may report such a deviation in writing within seven (7) calendar days of receiving the lot. If the complaint is justified, the lot may be returned by mutual agreement. The purchase price will be refunded in full upon receipt and inspection of the returned item.
We are always happy to assist you personally with any questions, additional photographs, or further information.
