|
HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
Ibibio : Ibibio Wooden Polychrome Mask
|
 |
|
|
|
Ibibio Wooden Polychrome Mask - PF.4832
Origin: Southeastern Nigeria
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
26" (66.0cm) high
x 23.75" (60.3cm) wide
Collection: African
Style: Ibibio
Medium: Wood and Paint
$7,200.00
Location: United States
|
|
|
| Description |
Where does the word reality end and “surreality”
begin? The thin barrier between the physical and
non-physical world is the territory of the priest
and the artist, particularly when involving
ancestral and other spirits in very old ritual
ceremonies. The blending of the old and new is
also a talented artist’s province, demonstrated
here in this spectacular mask. Though too heavy
to be worn, it was probably mounted on a
structure and paraded through the village as part
of a great masquerade. The use of paint on
large-scale works is a distinctive feature of the
Ibibio, and we are especially struck by the vibrant
green on the face. Its eyes are on metal rods
that can be manipulated by a string at the back.
Bushy black eyebrows and tufts of hair in the
nose give the face an inimitable character. By
including only the top row of teeth, the artist has
still managed to give the impression the mask is
conversing with us. A yellow zigzag along the
forehead adds dimension, as does the emblem in
the center of the forehead. Looking at this mask,
we feel in the presence of someone who is
benevolent, fun loving and also mysterious.
- (PF.4832)
|
| |
|
