Helmet mask "epa" ·  Nigeria, Yoruba · ID: 3034316

Description

heavy wood, slightly encrusted reddish patina, janus-headed, with protruding eyes and pointed lips, crowned by a pair of horns and a post-like appendage, dam., missing parts through insect caused damage, cracks, traces of abrasion;
used at “epa” celebrations, which last for several days and should ensure the well-being and fertility of the village community. Young men proof their skills and strength by carrying such high tapering and heavy masks on top of their heads, while dancing and jumping.

The object Helmet mask “epa” with the object ID 3034316 was last part of the auction 72nd tribal art auction at March 9, 2013 on Zemanek-Münster Auction house and had the lot number 380.

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