Mask - Igbo - Nigeria - Janus helmet mask.

This ancient mask named Agbobo mwo ‘embodies’ the soul or spirit of the Igbo female ancestor. It is distinguished by its janiform composition (two opposite faces).
They are generally carved for the mwo (phantom) society, the face is white (kaolin), color of death and mourning. These masks symbolize feminine beauty and are danced during festivities associated with the yam harvest.
The headdress is topped with a pierced crest tinted with blue and red pigments. The chevrons symbolize the course of the sun.
Dry patina from use.

Length 44 cm x Width 18 cm x Height 43 cm Weight 1.740 kg

Sending by registered Colissimo.