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This massive and powerful dark-painted semi-helmet
mask was made by the Igbo (Ibo) of Nigeria. It is a
classically exaggerated example, with a large jaw,
sinuous facial profile, high cheekbones and a high
forehead covered by a prominent item of headwear
with a raised crown. The face is exceptionally strong,
with a huge nose, serene, half-closed, hooded eyes
and a grimacing mouth that exposes the teeth.
Detailing is minimal but effective, comprising several
plugs by the ears (three on the viewer’s right side,
two on the left), a central extension hanging onto the
brow from the hat, two sets of plugs (two on the
viewer’s left, one on the right) on the forehead, and a
white-painted cross beneath each eye. The drama of
the piece is heightened by the dark colour scheme,
although careful scrutiny indicates that it has had
many re-paintings over a long life. This is confirmed
by the presence of many nails in different styles and
orientations, implying the previous presence of
various superstructures and, presumably, costumes.
Patination of the bare wood inside the mask is
convincingly dark and glossy, along with clear adze
marks from the carving process. There is a large hole
on either side of the jaw, indicating the previous
presence of a bite bar which would have been held in
the wearer’s teeth to prevent it from falling off during
performances.
The Igbo (Ibo) of the Northern Niger River Delta are
one of the largest and most important tribal groups
in West Africa. They are culturally highly complex,
with a political system based upon a loose form of
chiefdom/kingship in some areas, and a democratic
panel of decision-makers in others. Social life was
usually governed by a number of secret societies.
Their main god is Chukwu (literally “Great Spirit”),
the creator of the world, who is also linked to the sun
and all that grows and lives. Social conduct is
governed by Ogu-na-Ofo, spirits who defend the
innocent against unjust charges. If a guilty person
appeals to them for help, they will be cursed by
Amadioha (the god of thunder and lightning). There
are numerous other gods that deal with issues as
diverse as Ahia Njoku (yams) to Ikenga (fortune and
industry) and Agwu (medicine men). Each person
has a god named Chi, which is essentially an
embodiment of a person’s fate.
The Igbo are known for their artistic diversity, due to
the wide range of environments and local histories to
which their culture is exposed. Standard sculpture
includes Alusi figures – large, public figures designed
to embody the spirits of significant gods – and also
Ikenga figures, which are kept on personal altars in
private homes. Masks are usually associated with
initiation ceremonies and entertainment; the
powerful construction and appearance of this piece
presumably had considerable resonance in the eyes
of susceptible young initiates, which would justify its
status as an instrument of social control.
This is a powerful and impressive piece of African
art, and a worthy addition to any good collection of
the genre.
- (PF.3176 (LSO))
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