Overview

• Vintage item from the 20th century

• Materials: Wood

Igbo people are living mainly in the forested areas of south-west Nigeria. Igbo sculpture is subject to rather strict rules: the figures are generally frontal, symmetrical, and upright. Proportions are true to those of the human body. The Igbo use thousands of masks, which incarnate unspecified spirits of the dead, forming a vast community of souls. The outstanding characteristic of the many Igbo masks is that they are painted chalk white, the color of the spirit. Masked dancers wore extremely elaborate costumes (sometimes ornamented with mirrors) and often their feet and hands were covered. With their masks, the Igbo oppose beauty to bestiality, the feminine to the masculine, black to white. The masks, of wood or fabric, are employed in a variety of dramas: social satires, sacred rituals (for ancestors and invocation of the gods), initiation, second burials, and public festivals, which now include Christmas and Independence Day. Some masks appear at only one festival, but the majority appear at many or all.

In excellent condition.

Measures: 31 cm tall, 22 cm wide, 13.5 cm deep

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Please note, antique & vintage pieces are considered used, and some may have slight imperfections or wear, as to be expected of antique/vintage items. We will note any major flaw, defects, etc. Photographs are also part of the description & at times can cause items to appear larger than they are. The color on the item may vary slightly from the color on your screen due to monitor color restrictions.