Water spirit mask ·  Nigeria, Ijaw · ID: 3037724

Description

wood, encrusted brown patina, remains of pigments, slender form with pointed chin, stylized facial features, min. dam., cracks, small missing parts, traces of abrasion, base;
the ancestors “duen”, the deceased local heroes “am’om” and the water spirits “owuamapu” play an important role in the Ijaws religious belief. Every year a festivity in honour of the water spirits takes place, lasting for several days, held in order to win their favour and to secure the well-being of the community. The outward appearance of the masks extremely varies, for they reflect the visionary or dreamed look a water spirit has in the eyes of its respective carver. The masks are always worn horizontal on the head, for the water spirits themselves hold their heads in one level with the surface of the water as well.

Expertise

Karl-Ferdinand Schädler, München, 7.6.2003

Comparing literature

Anderson, Martha G., Ways of the Rivers, Los Angeles 2002, p. 143