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Western Africa, Nigeria, Yoruba peoples, ca. early to mid 20th century CE. A dark wooden helmet mask with an abstract zoomorphic face over a round base drilled through to attach an accompanying textile costume. Almond-shaped eyes, a broad nose, and a wide mouth comprise the face, and twin ears extend vertically from either lateral side. Kaolin mixed with earthen material provide the mask with its dark-brown coloration. This type of headdress mask, the Egungun, is meant to embody the force of the ancestors and is worn during a joyful ceremony celebrating the dead. Size: 10.25″ H (26 cm).
Condition: Loss to portion of one ear. Age-commensurate surface wear, minor nicks and chips to ears, facial features, and base, with fading and abrasions to pigmentation, otherwise very good.
Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired prior to 1970
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