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CollectionABDUA University of Aberdeen, Human Culture Collection
Object NameDance Mask
Ceremonial Mask
Face Mask
Object NumberABDUA:52655
CreatorLib494
Brief DescriptionWooden mask depicting a smiling human face, wearing a conical hat/ headress. Mask is in very light-coloured wood, and hat extends down at sides of head with flaps which cover the ears. Slits have been cut into the wood under the eyes, so that the wearer can see. The hat is decorated with incised horizontal lines and dots. No holes for suspension. Some natural imperefections can be seen as ovaloid holes on the front of the mask, which are most likely the natural pores of the wood substrate.
DimensionsH: 310 x W (ear to ear): 262 x D: 120mm
MaterialsWood
ConditionGood
MakerIbibio People
Object Production PlaceAfrica, West Africa, Nigeria, Cross River State, Calabar or Akwa Ibom State, Ikot Ekpene
Place KeyAfrica, West Africa, Nigeria, Cross River State, Calabar or Akwa Ibom State, Ikot Ekpene
Object History NoteCollected in 1963. The unusual light-wood substrate and lack of suspension holes could be a sign that the mask was made for the tourist trade rather than to be used in traditional ceremony.
Inscription ContentInscribed inside 'Ibibio, Ikotekene, Calabar, Nigeria. Coll. 1963'.-
Aquisition SourceMarsh, Dane E. M.
Aquisition Date26/08/2011
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