Mask with hinged jaw "elu" · Nigeria, Ogoni · ID: 3036107
sold
EUR 1,550
Size
H: 45,5 cm
H: 17.9 inch
Description
wood, greyish patina, crowned by a seated drummer, rep. (breakages at both arms), small missing parts through insect caused damage, slight traces of abrasion, base;
“elu” masks are worn by young men of the “ogoni” secret society. They were attached to a cone-shaped fibre and cloth cap. The corresponding costumes varied. The small caricatures represent different characters. In a funny or tragic way they illustrate oral traditions in stories and songs.
Expertise
Karl-Ferdinand Schädler, 22.4.2003, Munich, Germany
Comparing literature
David, Jean, Ogoni, Zürich 2002, p. 34