Ivorian Dan People Mask - "Poro" Initiation

A mask of this type is primarily used during the initiation, called "poro," of a young boy into adult society. Such a mask may also be used in performances to punish malefactors and exercise social control.

Only a male dancer who has been initiated into the male Poro Society carves and wears this type of mask. The mask serves to protect the young initiate against destructive or evil forces from the time of initiation until he one day enters the spirit realm.

The mask acts as the bodily form of a spirit who visits these initiates in a dream. The initiate gives life to the spirit through the mask, planning the song and dance that will be part of his initiation ceremony. When the initiate puts on the mask, he is transformed into the spirit. During the ritual, he goes into a deep trance to relay messages of wisdom from his ancestors that will help him to lead a long, prosperous and healthy life. The mask will remain in the family and community for years, passing from father to son.

This mask has eyes highlighted with aluminum. It has a fiber beard and fiber hair decorated with cowry shells. The cowry shells, which in the past were used as money, request the spirits to bless the young initiate with wealth.

Source:
http://www.rebirth.co.za Dan_tribal_art_history_and_culture.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gio_people