Masque en forme de cœur à front bombé (style Dan/Bassa)

Dan and Bassa masks of this heart-shaped type were traditionally used in a range of ceremonial roles — including entertainment, judicial/arbitration masks, and spirit-representing dance masks — depending on the specific facial treatment and accompanying regalia. The narrow, pointed chin and high forehead are typical of the Dan aesthetic ideal of calm, refined beauty.

High, domed, heavily textured forehead — in Dan/Bassa traditions, a large smooth or textured forehead often signifies wisdom, spiritual insight, and dignity

Painted triangular/chevron eye motifs — a decorative treatment around the eyes, possibly indicating scarification patterns or symbolic markings tied to identity or spiritual protection

Narrow, elongated, heart-shaped face tapering to a point at the chin — the defining silhouette of Dan-style masks, associated with idealized human beauty and serenity

Worn, eroded surface texture on the crown — while largely the result of age and environmental wear, such heavy natural patina is often taken by collectors as an indicator of an older, well-handled piece rather than a recent tourist carving

This mask's heart-shaped facial structure and high domed forehead diverge stylistically from the more oval, naturalistic Baule portrait masks in your collection, pointing instead toward the Dan or Bassa carving tradition of Liberia and western Côte d'Ivoire. The result is a face defined by strong verticality and restrained geometric decoration, emphasizing serenity and refinement through simplified, elegant form rather than elaborate ornamentation.