Ogbodo Enyi Elephant Mask, Ibo-Izzi, Nigeria, 1920s

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Ibo-Izzi (Igbo), Nigeria - 'Ogbodo Enyi' elephant dance mask, worn horizontally on top of the head with a padded ring … Read more Ibo-Izzi (Igbo), Nigeria - 'Ogbodo Enyi' elephant dance mask, worn horizontally on top of the head with a padded ring of woven plant fibres. The composite form merges an elephant's tusks with the open mouth of a hippopotamus and warthog features; the forehead projection represents the elephant's trunk. The 'Ogbodo Enyi' is traditionally seen as a benevolent guardian spirit that protects the village. Carved from light-coloured wood and finished with white, black and earth red/brown pigments. Made circa 1920, possibly earlier. Condition: good, with wear consistent with age and use - see detail photos. See less