CROCODILE HELMET MASK - Nigeria - Ijo
CROCODILE HELMET MASK - Nigeria - Ijo First half of the 20th century. Wood with a dark, crusty patina; woven raffia. Dimensions: 115 x 27 cm. These masks are worn horizontally above the dancer’s head; the reptile’s back is carved with repeated wave-like patterns, imitating the crocodile’s rough skin and armor. The animal is mounted on a central dome made of woven fibers. For the Ijo people, waterways are inhabited by powerful water spirits called Oru. These headdresses are worn during major seasonal ritual ceremonies. Expert: Coryse Mwape Internal ref.: 242
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CROCODILE HELMET MASK - Nigeria - Ijo First half of the 20th century. Wood with a dark, crusty patina; woven raffia. Dimensions: 115 x 27 cm. These masks are worn horizontally above the dancer’s head; the reptile’s back is carved with repeated wave-like patterns, imitating the crocodile’s rough skin and armor. The animal is mounted on a central dome made of woven fibers. For the Ijo people, waterways are inhabited by powerful water spirits called Oru. These headdresses are worn during major seasonal ritual ceremonies. Expert: Coryse Mwape Internal ref.: 242
Estimate
Time, Location
Auction House
