Antique Nigerian Ceremonial Ancestor Mask

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The Ibibio live in southern Nigeria, west of the Ibo, near the Cross River delta. The ‘Ekpo society’, a male … Read more The Ibibio live in southern Nigeria, west of the Ibo, near the Cross River delta. The ‘Ekpo society’, a male association, has considerable influence on the social and religious life of the Ibibio. The 'Ekpo society' is in charge of organising the initiation rituals of the youth, funerals, law enforcement and punishment, the cult of ancestors as well as the protection of the community in ceremonies and dances. Performances involves white masks (‘Mfon Ekpo’) as well as black masks (‘Idiok Ekpo’). The present, typical ‘Idiok Ekpo mask’ is carved from brown medium-weight wood, dyed black and then was stained with red color to highlight the mouth. With impressive tubular eyes, a protruding forehead, accentuating the eyebrows and a gritting teeth mouth. The mask's "headdress" has three faces carved into it representing the power of the ancestors. There are multiple small holes on the side that were used to attache twisted leather strings so they could be worn during ceremonies and dance. The inside has a ridge for balancing on the forehead. This is an An object with partly encrusted black patina and good traces of usage both inside and out, and age related patina with the oringinal colored paint fading. It was most likely made between 1870-1930.

The Ibibio people have a fascinating history and the Ekpo society’s influence was maintained even during the colonial era, as British officials deferred to its power and Ekpo ceremonies continued. Ekpo masks can be serene and beautiful or fierce and menacing. Ibibio carvers are well respected throughout the Niger Delta and today these antique Ekpo society masks are of the most valued by collectors. This mask can hand on a wall or be placed on a museum stand. Attached to the back is a pre-internet card of Indigo Art Gallery in Philadelphia -- a serious and respected seller of African arts for 58 years. See less