37.1/21 CM In Nigeria's eastern region masks, there's a population of approximately eight million people known as the Igbo masks. They are the second most populous ethnic group in West Africa, following the Yoruba. One of the most significant aspects of Igbo culture is their use of masks, which number in the thousands. These masks, which reflect the spirit, are typically chalk white in color. Masked performers wear intricately designed costumes, some of which include mirrors, and cover their hands and feet. By wearing masks, the Igbo combine seemingly opposing ideas such as beauty and savagery, masculinity and femininity, and black and white.

Carved Wooden Gelede Headdress Yoruba People, Nigeria circa 1930 height: 33cm, length: 30cm, width: 19cm ‘The eyes that have seen Gelede have seen the ultimate spectacle.’ – a Yoruba saying. This Gelede wooden headdress is carved from a single piece of light wood. The human face appears to represents a male. It is carved with … Read more