Chamba dance mask/Mama - Nigeria

Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Chamba
Material. Wood
Dimension. 72x38×28 cm
Shipping method Colissimo within 24-48h. Open

This decorative mask features characteristic traits of the 'bush cow' masks (bush buffalo) associated with the Mama or Chamba peoples of Nigeria.

Structure and form: The mask has a robust sculptural shape, carved from wood. It is topped by two imposing horns that curve inward and nearly meet at the top, reminiscent of a buffalo's horns.

Surface and texture: The wood shows a reddish color marked by visible tool marks.

Decorative details: A vertical light-colored band (white or pigmented) runs down the center of the upper part of the mask's head, creating a visual contrast with the rest of the red wood.

Organic elements: The back and sides of the mask are adorned with a thick vegetal fibre (raffia or similar material) that frames the wooden structure, adding volume and a ritual dimension to the object.

Style: This type of mask is recognized for its abstraction and formal simplification, characteristics of the artistic traditions of this region, where zoomorphic masks are used in ritual ceremonies to invoke the power of the animal represented.