Description:

Africa, Nigeria, Ibibio (Anang), ca. early 20th century CE. A fascinating carved wooden mask reflecting a fusion of indigenous Ibibio and Christian iconography. The form includes a face mask with a red face, abstract features, eye slits for the wearer, and straight or perhaps plaited coiffure, as well as a superstructure featuring Jesus on the cross and an inscription upon a surrounding arch. A superb example. Size: 21" H (53.3 cm)

Published in Masks from West and Central Africa: A Celebration of Color and Form (Schiffer Publishing Ltd., 2013) figure 195. The description reads as follows, "The superstructure of this unusual mask (Fig. 195) depicts a Christ figure on a cross that is attached to an inscribed arch. Some of the text is faded but appears to consist of the following words: Mr. Najime Ishermber. Gaav Mba. Yeea. Va. Ve. The reference to Christ reflects the prevalence of Christianity in southern Nigeria. Masks that depict Christian themes are uncommon in West Africa where Islam is the dominant religion."

Provenance: Ex-Paul & Mary Rosen Collection, New York, published in Masks from West and Central Africa: A Celebration of Color and Form (Schiffer Publishing, 2013)

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#113732

  • Condition: Minor surface wear and abrasions. High point wear from usage. Overall very good.

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

Artemis Fine Arts

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