Mask, Igbo; Nigeria
Wood, iron, pigments; H. 16 1/4"
This large and grotesque mask, displaying
obvious aggressive attributes, fits within the category
of masks referred to as Mgbedike. Masks such
as this express concepts of strength, violence,
and bravery. However, it cannot be ruled out that
this mask may be of the type known as Ojionu
(Cole & Aniakor, 1984.131). The impact of
this mask would have been even greater were the
traditional costume still intact–a large, shaggy
tunic with numerous accoutrements. To the Igbo who
created and danced with it, this mask represents
the embodiment of bravery and potency.
