Ancient Igbo Mask Nigeria, H 33 cm

Ancient Igbo. anthropomorphic Mask Nigeria polychrome wood

White face with black stripes on the forehead, toothed mouth, 3 braids on the top of the skull.

H 33 cm

The Igbo people are a large but widely spread population that inhabits both sides of the Niger river. Over the years Igbo people have embraced a great variety of beliefs and art styles from neighboring tribes. The wide variety of cultural influences from regional tribes creates rich cultural diversity and Igbo worship, this is clearly depicted in the ceremonial rituals, artistic creations, music, song and dance.

The bow-like forehead extension represents a machete that was used in field work and used to be a weapon.

Comes from a noble Swiss private collection.