Dance crest with chameleon ·  Nigeria, Afo · ID: 3048992

Description

metal, missing parts (clamps)

This type of crest is usually made of metal, more rarely of wood. It usually shows a combination of several magical symbols, in which the cockscomb plays a particularly important role. In allusion to this, the Afo call the crest “ekpeshi” (“feather man”).

Also frequently integrated into these dance crests is the chameleon, which is regarded as the harbinger of death, but which on account of its ability to change, can also bring life or death, happiness or unhappiness.

The crest is said to have appeared at funerals of nobles or important village elders. It could also be worn by a chief’s servant, when he visited neighbouring villages.

Comparing literature

Schädler, Karl-Ferdinand, Encyclopedia of African Art and Culture, Munich 2009, p. 15