Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive

Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive

Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive
This is clearly a mask that was made to wear (not a “wall mask”) and has seen a lot of use. Crudely yet powerfully carved, it is a bit rough around the edges. Look at my pictures. The crescent undercut to the eyeballs allows seeing. Little strips of rubber or leather create “hinges” allowing the mouth to clatter when the mask is danced. It has doubtless been repainted, at least once, to keep it viable for use. Rolled canvas cushions around the back sides and inside top provide some comfort for the wearer. Braided thread comprises a scraggly beard. The mouth interior – lips and tongue – are painted red. NOT A TOURIST PIECE! You will have to realize that it is not perfect. Not counting the beard it is about 9 tall. Ibibio and Ogoni masks from Nigeria are typically very small.
Fine Old AFRICAN IBIBIO MASK from Nigeria Articulated Jaw! Boston Primitive