Igbo crest mask - Nigeria






Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.
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The 30 cm wooden Igbo crest mask, titled “MASQUE CIMIER IGBO”, originates from Nigeria.
Description from the seller
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Igbo
Material. Wood
Dimensions. 30 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24–48 hours
This piece is a magnificent example of an Igbo crest mask (from Nigeria), traditionally worn on top of the head during ritual ceremonies or artistic festivities.
Here is a detailed description of its stylistic and morphological features:
1. The Hairstyle and Forehead
Textured hairstyle: The top of the head is covered with a dense organic material (resembling fibers or braided/adhered hair) featuring a textured pattern that imitates an elaborate traditional hairstyle.
Forehead ornamentation: A raised, carved band frames the base of the hairstyle, accented with dark geometric patterns. The forehead is adorned with scarification marks or raised motifs (tribal marks) extending vertically down the center and across the temples.
2. Facial Features
Light complexion: The face has a pale patina, strongly contrasting with the rest of the dark sculpture, a common feature in Igbo art representing beauty or the feminine ideal.
Gaze and eyes: The eyes are half-closed, finely carved and framed by prominent, arched dark eyebrows.
Nose and mouth: The nose is straight and aquiline. The slightly open mouth reveals carved or sculpted teeth, giving the mask a lively expression.
3. The Base and Structure
The cylindrical neck: The head rests on a long cylindrical neck that transitions into the base.
The flared base: The lower part forms a wide, dark conical base, aged by time and showing slight age cracks.
The surrounding ring: The base is encircled by a crown woven from natural fibers and wood, typical of fittings used to attach or stabilize the mask on the dancer’s headdress.
Origin. Nigeria
Tribe name. Igbo
Material. Wood
Dimensions. 30 cm
Shipping method. Colissimo within 24–48 hours
This piece is a magnificent example of an Igbo crest mask (from Nigeria), traditionally worn on top of the head during ritual ceremonies or artistic festivities.
Here is a detailed description of its stylistic and morphological features:
1. The Hairstyle and Forehead
Textured hairstyle: The top of the head is covered with a dense organic material (resembling fibers or braided/adhered hair) featuring a textured pattern that imitates an elaborate traditional hairstyle.
Forehead ornamentation: A raised, carved band frames the base of the hairstyle, accented with dark geometric patterns. The forehead is adorned with scarification marks or raised motifs (tribal marks) extending vertically down the center and across the temples.
2. Facial Features
Light complexion: The face has a pale patina, strongly contrasting with the rest of the dark sculpture, a common feature in Igbo art representing beauty or the feminine ideal.
Gaze and eyes: The eyes are half-closed, finely carved and framed by prominent, arched dark eyebrows.
Nose and mouth: The nose is straight and aquiline. The slightly open mouth reveals carved or sculpted teeth, giving the mask a lively expression.
3. The Base and Structure
The cylindrical neck: The head rests on a long cylindrical neck that transitions into the base.
The flared base: The lower part forms a wide, dark conical base, aged by time and showing slight age cracks.
The surrounding ring: The base is encircled by a crown woven from natural fibers and wood, typical of fittings used to attach or stabilize the mask on the dancer’s headdress.
