Zemanek-Münster

Mask "okoroshi"

Nigeria, Igbo
sold EUR 3,300
Provenance
American Collection, New York
Size
H: 27 cm
H: 10.6 inch

Description

wood, lusterless patina, polychrome paint, pierced slit eyes, elaborate coiffure with some lobes carved separate, pierced around the rim, missing parts through insect caused damage backside, traces of abrasion;
performances of present mask type apparently addressed large audiences and were accompanied by orchestras. Basically they were aiming at a great show effect different to those dances dealing with serious rituals and exercising social control.


Comparing literature

Wittmer, Marcilene K. & William Arnett, Three Rivers of Nigeria, Atlanta 1978, p. 29, ill. 65

Subscribe to our newsletter

Join over 10,000 tribal art collectors. Don't miss out on upcoming news and auctions.

Subscribe today