Additional information
| Ethnic Groups | |
|---|---|
| Primary Materials | |
| Materials | |
| Regions |
Idiok Ekpo Ibibio Mask
This Ibibio mask represents Idiok ekpo, the male element representing chaos in opposition to Mfon ekpo, the idealized female representing beauty and virtue. It is potentially a malady mask and would have been worn by an initiated male performer expressing, through dance, concepts of disorder or evil. In unison, the Mfon ekpo and Idiok ekpo dancers represent the dual nature of humanity. Note the menacing red eyes of this mask, as well the gaping forehead scar — perhaps the character is an epileptic or drunkard subject to self-harm and conflict. The angry expression and facial hair further emphasize the character’s masculinity. Original bite bar still attached. This Ibibio mask was found in a box among others wrapped in newspaper dated June 16, 1974. Other items in these boxes were similarly from southern Nigeria, areas caught up in the Biafran Civil War, 1967 – 1970. Ex collection Sidney and Gae Berman.
11.5”
