Mask ·  Nigeria, Urhobo · ID: 3038408

Description

wood, encrusted dark patina, remains of pigments, raised lancet-shaped scarification marks on the forehead, striking large and pointed ears, headband with separate carved pegs which are fixed by nails, collection/inventory number backside “16.79.8” and “1978.63.8”, pierced around the rim, small missing parts, traces of abrasion, base;
the Urhobo are a small Edo-speaking ethnical group living in the northwest of the Niger Delta. They made sculptures of terracotta and wood for worshipping the ancestors and supernatural powers, as well as wooden masks which were said to be connected with earth- and water spirits.

Comparing literature

Foss, Perkins (ed.), Where Gods and Mortals Meet, New York 2004, p. 115, ill. 65