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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Ibibio : Ibibio Wooden Polychrome Face Mask
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Ibibio Wooden Polychrome Face Mask - PF.4834
Origin: Southeastern Nigeria
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
36" (91.4cm) high
Collection: African
Medium: Wood and Mixed Media
$3,600.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
The Ibibio people enjoy adding theatrical
elements to their ceremonies and rituals. This
unique form of visual drama, as seen in the use
of sunglasses in this delightful mask, appears to
have a Western influence. In fact, paint was
introduced by the Europeans, but utilized in a
way that is distinctly African. Though the gorilla
aspect is quite clear, there is a definite human
quality in the expression, and the impish grin
that lights up with a fine row of white teeth.
Using brown pigment on the head gives the
impression of hair, while the yellow on the
cheeks has the surprising effect of a healthy
“glow.” The Ibibio artists are unique in Africa in
utilizing a polychrome effect combined with
separate panels in some of the ekpo society
masks. A long cloth covering at the back of the
dark green and multi-colored patterns adds a
sense of mystery to a mask that is very rich in
character.
- (PF.4834)
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