Photo 1/1 du lot
Hôtel des Ventes de Troyes

184 - Talisman - Dan - Ivory Coast Private collection, Belgium Dim…
See original version (French)

Estimate €150 - €250
Sale commission
Description
Talisman - Dan - Ivory Coast Private collection, Belgium Dimensions: H. 7 cm (10 cm with stand) Small Dan talisman mask carved from dense wood with a dark brown patina, representing a human face reduced to its essential forms. The eyes are represented by simple horizontal slits deeply incised under a continuous arch, while the rectilinear nose and geometric mouth give the whole a remarkably expressive force. Despite its modest dimensions, the sculpture exudes a singular presence, characteristic of the Dan aesthetic based on balanced volumes and sober lines. The flat reverse is pierced by two suspension holes, indicating that the object was intended to be carried or attached to a support. This type of miniature belonged to the category of personal objects with a protective or symbolic function. Kept on one's person, attached to a garment, a bag or a domestic altar, these small masks served as intermediaries between their bearer and the invisible forces invoked to ensure protection, good luck or well-being. The almost abstract simplicity of the face bears witness to an aesthetic quest that favours symbolic effectiveness over naturalistic description. The high forehead, closed eyes and angular volumes suggest an inward-looking figure, focused on the spiritual world rather than the representation of the living. Traces of use and wear on the relief reinforce the intimate nature of the object. These miniature masks occupy a special place in Dan art. They reproduce, on a reduced scale, the forms of large ceremonial masks, while serving more personal purposes. Their small size in no way detracts from their symbolic importance; on the contrary, it underlines their individual purpose and their closeness to their owner.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
About the sale ARTS OF AFRICA & OCEANIA: Three exceptional family collections
Auction location
Auction time 06/22/2026 at 2:00 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
You may also like