I M UST SELL MY ENTIRE 45+ YEAR COLLECTION OF AFRICAN MASKS! Though diminutive, this Ogoni mask from Nigeria shows a great deal of fierceness. Perfectly intact including, I believe, the original raffia “hinges”, this mask has seen a lot of use. It is definitely old. This type of Ogoni mask is also known as a “talking mask” because, perched atop the masquerader’s head over a billowing raffia skirt, the articulated jaw claps open and shut while he performs an incredibly strenuous and acrobatic dance (there are some on YouTube). It is thick-walled as it should be and, I would say, is both typical and exceptional. You’d be hard pressed to find a better example. These Elu masks are really under-represented in public exhibits, even the Met’s Rockefeller galleries. As I dissolve my collection, this is a good opportunity to acquire a fine example. The last photo shows the tied raffia or cord “hinges” that allow jaw movement. There is minor wear and tear to the wood as would be expected. It is only 7 3/8 tall including the crest! This item is in the category “Collectibles\Cultures & Ethnicities\African\1900-Now\Masks”. The seller is “musictramp” and is located in this country: US. This item can be shipped to United States.
- Handmade: Yes
- Modified Item: No
- Country/Region of Manufacture: Nigeria
- Culture: African
- Provenance: Ownership History Not Available