Female mask "wife of va" ·  Nigeria, Mumuye · ID: 3038122

Description

wood, matt patina, polychrome paint, an elongated head with large tubular eyes, pierced around the rim, missing parts through insect caused damage, cracks, traces of abrasion, base;
such masks are used in connection with harvest rites. When the corn has ripened the mask dancer performs together with his attendants, visiting all the neighbouring farmsteads. According to Sieber and Ververs this mask type is the female partner of the buffalo mask appearing at the “vabong” masquerade.

Comparing literature

Evers, Christophe, Art of the Upper Benue River, Brüssel 2003, p. 20