Janusheaded dance crest "egungun" ·  Nigeria, Yoruba · ID: 3033207

Description

wood, blackish brown patina, indigo blue and white pigment, nearly identical formed faces, towering coiffure, one of the faces carved with a beard, blue fabric on the underside, dam., crack, missing parts (nose, cheek), paint rubbed off in some areas, small traces of insect caused damage;
“egungun” is a masquerade with strong historical connections to the old Oyo empire and is practised mainly among the northern Yoruba. It was worn on top of the head and attached to a cloth costume at the neck.

Comparing literature

Nettleton, Anitra (ed.), Nigerian Art, South Africa 2002, p. 143