Lot 508

Two Ogoni Elu Festival Masks | Nigeria

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Two Ogoni Elu Festival Masks | Nigeria

Estimate: $400 - $600

Current Bid: $200

(1 Bid)

by Artemis Fine Arts
July 30, 2026 8:00 AM MDT
Live Auction
686 S. Taylor Avenue
Suite 108
Louisville, CO, US 80027

Nigeria. Festival masks, both finely carved and representing distinct sculptural traditions within Ogoni masquerade. One mask features open eye apertures surmounted by a headdress of three prominent nodes, with boldly carved relief scarification along the forehead and before the projecting ears. Traces of red pigment remain on the surface. The second mask, appearing to be of greater age and thicker construction, is crowned by a stylized bird-form crest above a projecting forehead and a wide rim border. Its surface bears a rich black-gray patina with encrusted deposits, reflecting prolonged use and age. Historically, Ogoni masks were worn during ritual performances associated with funerary ceremonies and agricultural celebrations, particularly those marking the planting and harvesting of yams, serving both commemorative and communal functions. 7" H (17.78 cm H).

Provenance: Long Island, N.Y. collection. Ex. collection of Nancy and John Hyde Devoe, NYC. and N.J., active 1950’s - 1970’s.

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Item # 72272

  • Condition: Both masks display surface wear consistent with ceremonial performance.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $749 $25
$750 $1,499 $50
$1,500 $2,999 $100
$3,000 $7,499 $250
$7,500 $14,999 $500
$15,000 $29,999 $1,000
$30,000 $99,999 $5,000
$100,000 + $10,000