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A FINE AFIKPO MASK

Details
A FINE AFIKPO MASK
The whitened face with pointed nose and blackened crescent mouth, pierced eyes, notched horizontal band to the blackened coiffure, plaited raffia about the border
16.5cm. high
Special notice
Christie's charge a buyer's premium of 20% (VAT inclusive) for this lot.

Lot Essay

Cf. a somewhat similar mask called Nne Mgbo "mother of Mgbo" (Cole, H.M. and Aniakor, C.C., Igbo Arts Community and Cosmos, U.C.L.A., 1984, p.173, fig.290). The mask performs during an elaborate parade of costumed spirits, praise singers and dancers which signals the dry season festival. Known as a "Walkabout", Njenji takes place at a time of plenty, with much gift-giving and feasting, representing a satirical view of life among the Afikpo. All age-grade members take part and the players are readily identifiable to the viewers.

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