Anthropomorphic mask · Nigeria, Urhobo / Isoko · ID: 3046634
Fily Keita, Los Angeles, USA
Description
wood, colour pigments, nails, collection number “F. / 834”, rest.
A mask possibly by the same artist shown in Foss (2004), p. 105, cat. 62.
Masks of the Urhobo were worn in ceremonies in honor of water spirits “edjorame”. The group’s most important masquerade festivals are devoted to “Ohworhu”, spirit of the deep waters and forests, who also serves to watch over marital fidelity.
This is the context in which the present mask should be seen. It likely represents a young woman of marriagable age “opha”. The horn-like hairstyle is an indication of her status as a future bride.
The object Anthropomorphic mask with the object ID 3046634 was last part of the auction 94th Tribal Art Auction at March 7, 2020 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 279.
You can find more Masks and other popular object types on our related topic pages. You may also be interested in our page on African art.
Comparing literature
Foss, Perkins (ed.), Where Gods and Mortals meet, New York 2004, p. 105, Cat. 62 and p. 115 ff.