Dance mask - Elu - Ogoni - Nigeria
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Selected by Julien Gauthier
A decade of experience in historical arms, armour, and African art.
Estimate € 450 - € 500
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Dance mask from Nigeria of the Ogoni people, an Elu mask from the mid‑20th century, carved in wood, height 41.5 cm, width 16 cm, depth 10.5 cm, weight 607 g, sold with stand, provenance Private collection, authentic original, in good condition.
AI-assisted summary
Description from the seller
Elu mask of the Ogoni people from Nigeria. Mid-20th century. Ex. private French collection. This striking Ogoni mask features a distinctive architectural superstructure above the head, possibly representing a symbolic ancestral house or shrine associated with spiritual authority and ceremonial importance. The mask displays expressive traditional carving and carries a strong cultural presence.
The Ogoni people are an indigenous ethnic group from southern Nigeria, known for their rich artistic traditions, ceremonial culture, and deeply symbolic masks and sculptures used in community rituals and performances. Ogoni art is valued for its expressive forms, spiritual significance, and strong connection to ancestral heritage.
The Elu mask is a traditional ceremonial mask of the Ogoni people, characterized by expressive facial features and symbolic spiritual meaning. Elu masks were used in performances and community rituals, representing ancestral spirits and cultural identity.
Seller's Story
At Tribal Art Finland, we are dedicated to providing our customers with authentic and high-quality African tribal art at reasonable prices. Ensuring the authenticity of our products is our highest priority, and we source our artworks from trusted collectors of African art.
What is Authentic African Art?
In the traditional framework embraced by collectors and dealers, authentic African art—such as a mask—is typically defined as an object that has been used in cultural practices, such as dance or shrine decoration. This traditional use is often understood as ritual use, indicating a role in religious or magical ceremonies. Additionally, decorated furniture or household items, crafted with cultural significance and artistic skill, are also considered authentic forms of African art.
Elu mask of the Ogoni people from Nigeria. Mid-20th century. Ex. private French collection. This striking Ogoni mask features a distinctive architectural superstructure above the head, possibly representing a symbolic ancestral house or shrine associated with spiritual authority and ceremonial importance. The mask displays expressive traditional carving and carries a strong cultural presence.
The Ogoni people are an indigenous ethnic group from southern Nigeria, known for their rich artistic traditions, ceremonial culture, and deeply symbolic masks and sculptures used in community rituals and performances. Ogoni art is valued for its expressive forms, spiritual significance, and strong connection to ancestral heritage.
The Elu mask is a traditional ceremonial mask of the Ogoni people, characterized by expressive facial features and symbolic spiritual meaning. Elu masks were used in performances and community rituals, representing ancestral spirits and cultural identity.
Seller's Story
At Tribal Art Finland, we are dedicated to providing our customers with authentic and high-quality African tribal art at reasonable prices. Ensuring the authenticity of our products is our highest priority, and we source our artworks from trusted collectors of African art.
What is Authentic African Art?
In the traditional framework embraced by collectors and dealers, authentic African art—such as a mask—is typically defined as an object that has been used in cultural practices, such as dance or shrine decoration. This traditional use is often understood as ritual use, indicating a role in religious or magical ceremonies. Additionally, decorated furniture or household items, crafted with cultural significance and artistic skill, are also considered authentic forms of African art.
Details
Indigenous object name
Elu
Ethnic group/ culture
Ogoni
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Period
Mid 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Dance mask
Height
41.5 cm
Width
16 cm
Depth
10.5 cm
Weight
607 g
Provenance
Private collection
Authenticity
Original/official
Sold by
