Original price was: $250.00.$125.00Current price is: $125.00.
1 in stock
This mask was created in the style of the Ogoni people of Nigeria. This kaolin clay covered mask features rectangular eyes and three protruding pieces comes from the top of the head. It measures 10.5 inches tall and weighs a half pound. There is wood deterioration, repairs, cracking, scrapes and scuffs – please inspect photos. Stand is not included.
This is a piece from the Dave Dahl Collection. Please feel free to contact us with your best offers! Please include item title or SKU.
| Type of Object | Face Mask |
|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Nigeria |
| Ethnicity | Ogoni |
| Material | wood, pigment, metal wire |
| Approximate Age | Unknown |
| Height | 10.5" |
| Width | 7.75" |
| Depth | 4.5" |
| Weight | 0.5 lb |
| Overall Condition | Wood deterioration, previous repairs, cracking, scuffs |
“The Niger River Delta are covers the entire southern part of Nigeria from the Benin River in the west to the Cross River in the east. There are two main cultural areas – the first includes the western side of the Niger River Delta and was first populated during the 9th century by migrating tribes who came from the north. The Ijo people were the first to settle in the area and now live on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean. Later, other tribes such as the Urhubo, the Isoko and the Ogoni settled in the northern and western part of this delta area. The second cultural area is centered around the Cross River in eastern Nigeria and is home to the Ibibio, the Igbo, the Ekoi, the Oron and the Eket. The latter shares the same Ekpo secret society which was first introduced to the area by the Ibibio people.
The rich farming land on the eastern part of the delta sustains the Ogoni people. Their carvers produce large puppets and horizontal headdresses, but they are well known for their small human-face masks which are characterized by an articulated haw with inset teeth. These masks are used during Christmas festivities and funerals.”
Source:
Baquart, Jean-Baptiste. The Tribal Arts of Africa. New York: Thames and Hudson Inc. 1998. Print.
