The form of the mask and the coiffure suggest an origin with the Dan of Liberia and the Ivory Coast. Much of their mythology and social structure is based upon the forest and its fiercer creatures – the Leopard Society is the main organ of social control. Prior to the 1960s there was scarcely a social function that did not have its own mask, from fire-watching (= fire warden), adjudicators, warriors, debt collectors, social delinquents and warriors, and others for enlisting workers to clear paths, to catch runaway wives, to race unmasked athletes (“runner masks”), to snatch feast food to serve to children and even for spying. The paint, however, is unusual for these pieces, which are usually dyed black or very dark brown with minor details (especially the eyes) picked out in lighter colours. It is interesting to note the brass studs, as these are more typical of another West African coastal group: the Bete. However, the facial features are refined and moderate, unlike the grotesque warrior masks produced by the Bete, so it is more probably an example of Dan art.

The precise function of this piece cannot be ascertained with certainty, although it bears characters reminiscent of Go-Ge masks – these were worn for chiefly funerals. Whatever its function, this is an impressive and attractive piece of African art.