Masque "idiok ekpo"
Christie’s, Amsterdam, 12 December 2000, lot 171
Joris Visser, Brussels, Belgium
Description
wood, black patina, remains of pigments, min. dam., missing parts through insect caused damage (back), paint rubbed off, base.
The “ekpo” society (Ibibio word for ancestor) represents the most important Ibibio society. “Ekpo” members danced light coloured “mfon” and black or dark colored “idiok” masks that evoke benign and more numerous malevolent ancestors, respectively. Most Ibibio masks are dark coloured, as embodying ugly, unsatisfied spirits whose behavior provided negative examples for the living. Some were plagued by disease and disfigurement for their transgressions and were destined to wander forever, unhappy and unfulfilled. In contrast, the fewer light colored, attractive masks and tableaux embody benign ancestors who led good, productive, and moral lives. They are positive examples of good behaviour.
Littérature comparée
Wittmer, Marcilene K. & William Arnett, Three Rivers of Nigeria, Atlanta 1978, p. 68, ill. 160Publications
Gallery J. Visser (ed.), Recent Acquisitions, Brussels 2003, p. 2AHDRC: 0091942