Mask · Nigeria, Idoma · ID: 3032623
not available anymore
Size
H: 33 cm
H: 13.0 inch
Description
wood, polychrome paint, of concave vaulted form, the eyes arranged close to each other flanked by raised tattoos on the temples, the teeth indicated by notches, coiffure of reddish animal hair, pierced around the rim, missing parts through insect caused damage, slight traces of abrasion, on metal base;
probably an “ikpobi” mask type, which was used for victory celebrations at dances performed by returning warriors, while the heads of killed enemies were presented as trophies. Nowadays “ikpobi” mask figures appear in pairs of male and female mainly at funeral ceremonies.
Comparing literature
Hahner-Herzog, Iris, Das Zweite Gesicht, Genf, München, New York 1997, ill. 58