Ogoni Mask

189. A Ogoni ‘Elu’ mask dating to the early 20th century with an articulated jaw.

The elu mask is an old form of a spirit mask, the color white is associated with the spirit world. Too small to be worn on the face, the elu is instead attached to a conical cloth cap atop the head of the dancer. The hinged jaw causes the mask’s mouth to open and close during the dance with a loud clicking sound. Such masks are worn by members of secret men’s societies during festivals and at funerals of important members of the society.

Nigeria.

36cm tall.

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