Mask · Nigeria, Basa Nge · ID: 3035760
Andre Scaz, Los Angeles, USA
Antonio Fiacco, Fehraltorf/Zurich, Switzerland
Description
wood, dark brown patina, black paint, small remains of kaolin, oval hollowed calvaria carved with coiffure and ears, the actual face projecting to the front, consisting of a long open snout and fine grooved ornamental antelope horns, projection with drilled hole on top, accurate geometrical incisions, slightly dam., missing parts through insect caused damage (root of the nose) missing parts at the rim, cracks, base;
Rare !
the Basa Nge are a small ethnic group, belonging ethnologically to the Nupe, and having their homeland on the confluence of the Niger and Benue. There are only a few figures and masks definitely originating from them. They have zoomorphic helmet masks which show similarities with the water spirit masks of the Ijaw. One famous example is the mask of the Lagos Museum, which was found before 1920 on the west bank of the Niger, in Igbirra country. Published in Neyt/Désirant, 1985, p. 86, II.59.This mask was used in the “ekucici” ritual, in ceremonies following funerals, and village festivities.
Comparing literature
Neyt, Francois, The Arts of the Benue, Tielt 1985, p. 85 f.