This large, rare dance mask depicts the mythical pangolin. Finely carved from lightwood - in which each individually carved wooden scale has been inserted into the body of the mask - this head crest would have been paraded on the head of an Ekpeye dancer.
The pangolin, resembling both a reptile and mammal, is regarded by the Ekpeye as a special creature which exists in two separate worlds; and thus is a symbol of transformation. For the Ekpeye, the blacksmith holds a similar place among humans - he magically transforms earth (iron ore) into metal (iron). The pangolin is the blacksmith of the animal world.
Headdresses such as this are made by members of the Egbukele society, the primary men’s association of the Ekpeye in south eastern Nigeria. Until at least 1966, the Egbukele society’s major celebration each year was a three day event during the dry season, that featured feasting and vigorous dancing, with dancers wearing large headdresses.
Ex Private Collection, France
Estimated Period: Mid-20th Century
EKPBH00
Reference
Museum of Fine Arts, Houston https://ita.mfah.org/
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