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HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Ibibio : Ibibio Wooden Polychrome Face Mask
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Ibibio Wooden Polychrome Face Mask - PF.4989
Origin: Southeastern Nigeria
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
8" (20.3cm) high
x 6" (15.2cm) wide
Collection: African
Medium: Wood and Feather
$4,500.00
Location: United States
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| Description |
The Ibibio have no centralized government, so
their daily life is controlled by secret societies.
One of the most important, the ekpo society,
plays an active role in political, judicious, and
religious affairs of a village. They are also in
charge of the ancestor cult and initiation of
young people. For the all important ritual of
initiation, two basic types of masks are used-the
idiok, representing wandering spirits; and mfon
depicting spirits that have reached paradise. An
initiate who wears a mask, such as this dramatic
example, personifies the spirit who has returned
to earth for a brief time.
A wide grinning mouth exposing large white
teeth is nearly as striking as the vivid red eyes.
They are carved in the center of the eye sockets
leaving the edges exposed, creating an effect
which makes the eyes seem almost three-
dimensional. The facial features are quite
realistic, the intense stare and persona of the
mask suggests it is of the idiok category. Blue
and white thread in the small holes show how it
was attached to the wearer, probably sewn to a
cloth covering. The intent of this mask was to
give expression to a spirit, and capture its
character and personality while still being
identifiably human. In this respect the artist has
certainly succeeded.
- (PF.4989)
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