Description:

West Africa, Nigeria, Ibibio culture, ca. 20th century CE. A carved wooden dance mask from the Ibibio peoples of the region between the Niger River Delta and the Cross River. This is one of the two major masks that appear in Ibibio ceremonies. Referred to as a "Mfon," this example has an articulated jaw suspended by two strands of knotted reeds, and represents a beautiful spirit who has successfully attained eternal bliss. This mask boasts a neat coiffure parted down the middle, dramatically wide eyes, a petite nose, and full lips. Painted in a dark-brown pigment, this is a wonderful example of a dance mask from Western Africa! Size: 7" H (17.8 cm).

Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Chicago, Illinois, USA acquired prior to 1970

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#130811

  • Condition: Age-commensurate surface wear, light fading to pigmentation around nose and brow line, roughness and small chips around peripheries, with wear to reed jaw straps, otherwise intact and very good. Nice earthen deposits throughout.

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March 1, 2018 7:00 AM MST
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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