Ibibio mask - Ibibio - Nigeria

In African art, the tribal masks and accessories of the Ekpo society constitute the greatest works among the Ibibio. Drums and music are also important elements of Ekpo ceremonies. The wooden sculpture of this region is highly detailed, and the artists are also likely to capture the beauty of the evil spirits.

The villages are led by Ekpo Ndem Isong (a group of village elders) and extended heads of families. Their decisions are made by the members of society who play the role of the ancestors' messengers. Ekpo members are still masked in the exercise of their policing duties, although their identities are almost always known, to avoid retaliation from the ancestors' faction beyond their social limits, which could be described as police brutality. Membership is open to all Ibibio men; nevertheless, access to politically influential ranks requires a certain level of wealth. Crusted patina with well-preserved polychromy.

Provenance: Raquel Montagut Gallery, Barcelona
Argiles Collection, Barcelona