Bush cow mask ·  Nigeria, Chamba · ID: 3033977

Description

wood, polychrome paint, remains of mass originally inserted with abrus seeds, open mouth, stylized facial features with scarifications, crowned by a forehead crest and a pair of horns, pierced around the rim, dam., missing parts through insect caused damage, cracks, traces of abrasion;
masks like the present were danced in “vabon” rituals every seven years, when they perform with anthropomorphically masked “wives”. They also participate in funerals, agricultural celebrations, and other community events, and may see to social regulation, punishment of offenders, and the warding off of epidemics.

Comparing literature

Roberts, Allen F., The shape of belief, San Francisco 1997, p. 80, ill. 51