The face masks of the akweya group, district of Akpa also called Okua, are mainly used during funerals of notorieties. The Idoma of the South, like the Igbo of the North, use masks of this type, many of whose characteristics have been borrowed from the Bokyi. Our copy, bleached with kaolin, would be of the ikpobi category, intended for young men, and formerly linked to war ceremonies. Height on base: 44 cm. Abraded matte patina, cracks. The Idoma, who are probably descendants of the Akopo, live at the confluence of the Bénué and the Niger. Numbering 500,000, they are farmers and traders. There are Igbo, Cross River and Igala influences in their art and customs and it is often difficult to distinguish them from their neighbours. The royal lineage members of their oglinye society, glorifying courage, wear masks and crests during funerals and festivities. They also produce fertility statues with whitened faces and showing incised teeth. Janiform crests are generally exhibited at the funerals of notables. (Ref. The Other Face, ed. Adam Biro; Arts of Nigeria, 5Continents)
290.00 € Possibility of payment in 2x (2x 145.0 €) This item is sold with its certificate of authenticity
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