HOME :
African & Tribal Art :
African Collection/ HK : Ekoi Wooden Dance Crest Covered in Hide
|
 |
|
|
Ekoi Wooden Dance Crest Covered in Hide - PF.5355
Origin: Southeastern Nigeria
Circa: 20
th
Century AD
Dimensions:
12" (30.5cm) high
Collection: African
Medium: Wood, Hide, Fiber
Additional Information: Hong-Kong
£6,000.00
Location: Great Britain
|
|
|
Photo Gallery |
|
Description |
Dramatic and visually powerful, this dance crest
presents a superb example of Ekoi art. Elements
in common with this type of object are the open
mouth revealing large wooden teeth, intensely
staring white eyes, and the rich red coloration of
the skin. Graphic physical features noted in the
high arched brows, and in particular the raised
curved lines on the cheeks, like thick veins,
indicating straining of the muscles during an
intensely emotional state. The hairstyle is
created by fiber bands twisted into “ropes,” while
the base is of interlacing raffia fiber. Dance
crests (which are held in the hand) are used in
the enforcement of rules by the Ekoi society
whose members maintain strict codes of
behavior. This would account for the fierce
expression exuding a sense of moral authority
and physical strength.
- (PF.5355)
|
|
|