Antique African Igbo Double Face Headdress

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Striking antique Igbo double-faced ceremonial headdress from southeastern Nigeria. Hand-carved in wood with beautifully aged white kaolin pigment, remnants of … Read more Striking antique Igbo double-faced ceremonial headdress from southeastern Nigeria. Hand-carved in wood with beautifully aged white kaolin pigment, remnants of red ceremonial coloration, and an iron neck ring. The rare Janus-like form features two expressive ancestral faces positioned back-to-back beneath tall spiraled coiffures or horned headdresses, symbolizing duality, spiritual protection, and connection to the ancestral realm within traditional Igbo masquerade culture. Richly weathered surfaces, deep patina, natural cracking, and heavy age wear throughout speak to decades of ritual handling and authentic ceremonial use. The wrapped fiber base suggests the piece was once mounted to a larger masquerade costume or dancer’s helmet framework used in spirit performances and community rites. An exceptional sculptural example with powerful presence, strong tribal character, and remarkable texture from every angle. See less