Water spirit mask · Nigeria, Urhobo · ID: 3047925
not available anymore
Provenance
Amadou Roufaye, Niamey, NigerMassimo Martini, Montecatini Terme, Italy (acquired around 1995)
Jan Kusters, Waalre, The Netherlands
Size
H: 35 cm
H: 13.8 inch
Description
wood, pigments, base
Urhobo masks are worn at “oworhu” festivals in honour of the water spirits “edjo re ame” (“edjorame”), who according to Urhobo belief are responsible for the well-being of the community.
The Urhobo have a deep-rooted belief in spiritual forces from the waters and forests that surround them.
Comparing literature
Lebas, Alain (ed.), Arts of Nigeria in French Private Collections, Milan 2012, ill. 36