Igbo mask (Agbogho Mmuo) - Igbo - Nigeria

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Dimitri André
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Selected by Dimitri André

Holds a postgraduate degree in African studies and 15 years experience in African art.

Estimate  € 400 - € 450
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Igbo mask (Agbogho Mmuo), a wooden Igbo helmet mask from Nigeria, provenance Colección privada, height 30 cm, in good condition, sold with stand.

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Description from the seller

This mask, which belongs to the Agbogho Mmuo tupé, is a simple, non-perforated crest mask, with a carved and rested coiffure, combs, and scarifications. Its simplicity makes it very expressive. Agbogho Mmuo or Maiden Spirits are helmet masks intended to represent the spirit of a beautiful female ancestor, and they are danced during annual ceremonies held during the dry season, which can also be performed at funeral services in the Igbo territories. The mask is worn by men only, who imitate the movements of a graceful female to music played on traditional drums. The lightness of the mask does not idealize white skin but indicates the spiritual nature of the girl represented.

Provenance: Berthe Hartert collection
Argiles collection, Barcelona

This mask, which belongs to the Agbogho Mmuo tupé, is a simple, non-perforated crest mask, with a carved and rested coiffure, combs, and scarifications. Its simplicity makes it very expressive. Agbogho Mmuo or Maiden Spirits are helmet masks intended to represent the spirit of a beautiful female ancestor, and they are danced during annual ceremonies held during the dry season, which can also be performed at funeral services in the Igbo territories. The mask is worn by men only, who imitate the movements of a graceful female to music played on traditional drums. The lightness of the mask does not idealize white skin but indicates the spiritual nature of the girl represented.

Provenance: Berthe Hartert collection
Argiles collection, Barcelona

Details

No. of items
1
Ethnic group/ culture
Igbo
Country of Origin
Nigeria
Period
Late 20th century
Material
Wood
Sold with stand
Yes
Condition
Good condition
Title of artwork
Igbo mask (Agbogho Mmuo)
Height
30 cm
Provenance
Private collection
SpainVerified
New
on Catawiki
Private

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