West Africa, Nigeria, Ibibio culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. A hand-carved wooden plaque face mask of an ovoid form, most likely for the Ekpo Society. The flattened plaque-like rim encircles the serene visage with pierced holes for attachment to a costume or the wearer. The Ibibio people, residing in small village groups, maintain social peace and order through the use of masks and figures symbolizing both good and evil spirits. They traditionally create two types of masks: those representing evil spirits or individuals who have committed wrongdoings, known as Idiok Ekpo, and those representing virtuous beings called Mfon Ekpo, like this example. The Idiok Ekpo masks often have a grotesque appearance, personifying a doomed or lost soul, while the Mfon Ekpo masks are generally attractive, representing upstanding virtues. Size: 10" L x 6" W (25.4 cm x 15.2 cm)

Provenance: ex-Adeon Gallery, Nick Poolos, Chicago, Illinois USA, acquired before 1970.

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#113242

    Condition:
  • Fading and discoloration to the pigments. Some old chips and abrasions, but otherwise good condition.

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by Artemis Fine Arts
January 30, 2025 8:00 AM MST
686 S. Taylor Ave., #108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Artemis Fine Arts

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