Zemanek-Münster

Mask "mwanyi ogada"

Nigeria, Izzi/Igbo
sold EUR 5,000
Provenance
Michel Lair, France
Alain de Monbrison, Paris, France (1992)
Frederick Wallace, Sarasota, USA
Size
H: 42 cm
H: 16.5 inch

Description

wood, matt patina, polychrome paint, facial scarifications, coiffure with high middle crest, carved with combs on both sides, min. dam., small missing parts, fine cracks, slight traces of abrasion, base;
such masks were part of a masquerade called “okperegede” and were danced annually during the dry season by small groups (Ezza, Izzi, Ikwo) living beyond the rain-forest area of Igbo country. The masks and costumes they wear are called “ogbodo”, and represent spirits made visible by the dancer.


Comparing literature

Cole, Herbert M. & Chike C. Aniakor, Igbo Arts, Los Angeles 1984, p. 152, ill. 266

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