Helmet mask "inyelekwe"

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Description

light wood, black patina, white paint, band of fabric, the contours of the face, nose, ears and the tripartite crested coiffure accentuated through a thick layer of clay-like mass with black and red abrus seeds attached (mostly missing), the lower area with flaring rim without colour (originally covered by a costume), slightly dam., traces of insect caused damage (base), metal mount;
the “inyelekwe"performs for three days in the Ocho festival. Its function is to escort the Ata (=king) until the end of the ceremonies. The “inyelekwe” sing songs of praise by which they show the highest possible signs of respect. The mask itself is in fact not sacred and not endowed with ritual power.

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Comparing literature

Neyt, Francois, The Arts of the Benue, Michigan 1985, ill. II.6b

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