Zoomorphic mask · Nigeria, Kantana (Mama) · ID: 3032256
sold
EUR 1,600
Provenance
Émile-Francois Chambon, Geneva, Switzerland (1991)Eduard Hess, Basel, Switzerland
Size
H: 43 cm
H: 16.9 inch
Description
wood, encrusted brown patina, remains of pigments, of stylized form, a raised forehead ridge flanked by strong curved horns, an open mouth below, min. dam., minor missing parts, traces of abrasion;
the Mama use wooden dance crests carved as stylized bushcows or antelopes in the “mangam” masquerade, when they enlisted the aid of the ancestral spirits to ensure a successful harvest. The dancers wear these masks, while their whole body is covered by a garment made of grass.
Comparing literature
Fagg, William, List, Herbert, Bildwerke aus Nigeria, München 1963, ill. 137