Animal mask – Wood – Ibo – Nigeria

Animal mask from the IBO tribe of Nigeria.
These face masks of the Ibo from the southeast of Nigeria are a smaller version of the large helmet masks ‘Agbogho Mmwo’, with their tall, carved top pieces. Just like the ‘Agbogho Mmwo’ helmets, these masks are worn by men in tight, colourful costumes, where they dance with them during harvest festivals as well as ceremonies honouring ancestors, women and earth deities. Good condition with traces of wear and tear.
The mask has animal ears from a Leopard. The leopard is a mighty and powerful royal animal, which rules the savanna as the king rules over his people.