Ikwere crest mask, Ijo, Nigeria, wood, pigment - Lot 216

Lot 216
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Estimation :
300 - 400 EUR
Ikwere crest mask, Ijo, Nigeria, wood, pigment - Lot 216
Ikwere crest mask, Ijo, Nigeria, wood, pigment H.60cm Rare, abstract dance crest representing a bird with a long, notched beak. The spherical skull features coffee-bean shaped eyes set against the ears. A median bead divides the skull from the beak. A woven rattan support attached to the base of the mask held it in place on the dancer's head. The surface is covered with kaolin. A beautiful and versatile material. The Ikwere live in the Niger Delta region, east of the Abua territory, between the Ijo to the west and the Igbo to the east. Marked by numerous estuaries and mangrove forests, this delta region is also known for the splendor of its ceremonies, which essentially serve to renew ties with the spirit world, in this case alliances with the water spirits who are said to have transmitted the art of masquerade to mankind.
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