Description:

African, Nigeria, Ogoni peoples, mid 20th century CE. This is a really fun example of a classic Ogoni wood mask with articulated jaw. It is hand carved cane wood with painted details: a kaolin white surface and dark lips, eye outlines, and hair. The mouth is fully articulated and attached inside is a line of matchstick-shaped wood strung together to form a kind of grill of teeth. On the forehead is a black-painted keloid or scar mark that is common among the Ogoni, Ijo, and Ibgo peoples of Nigeria. Atop the head is a shape that is best described as a steep roof. The Ogoni people, living in the fertile land east of the Niger River Delta, have a long history of masquerading, despite the efforts of Christian missionaries to stop this activity. Masks are used in a wide variety of situations -- entertainment, participation in rituals, and attending social events like funerals. A white-faced mask like this one is an "elu", a spirit, and would have been worn in such a way that it covered half the face and the wearer had the ability to move the mouth. Size: 5" W x 8.15" H (12.7 cm x 20.7 cm)

Provenance: Ex- Nick Poolos collection, Adeon Gallery, Chicago, IL acquired before 1975

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#113581

  • Condition: Expected wear but really nice condition with remaining paint including red details on the roof; articulated mouth still works.

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May 12, 2016 8:00 AM MDT
Louisville, CO, US

Artemis Fine Arts

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$300 $999 $50
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$2,000 $4,999 $250
$5,000 $9,999 $500
$10,000 $19,999 $1,000
$20,000 $49,999 $2,000
$50,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 $199,999 $10,000
$200,000 + $25,000