Mumuye - Nigeria

This mask represents the masculine element, in the form of a buffalo, known as Wabo, which dances with the mask representing the feminine element at the funerals of an important figure, at the appointment of a new chief, or during harvest festivals. The name Mumuye is given by the Fulani to a number of small ethnic groups inhabiting the Adamaoua plateau towards the Cameroonian border. The Mumuye share certain commonalities with the Jukun, from whom they have adopted important cults (Meek). Before the British era, they had no central authority, although all recognised the priest of the village of Yoro as the supreme ‘rainmaker’. Mumuye settlements number no more than 200 or 300 individuals at most. Each family group has a chief who is the guardian of the ancestors’ skulls.