African Art - Idoma Crest (No. 28575)

Dutch collection of African art. Borrowed from the Igbo of the Cross River, the African masks crests Idoma also relate to warrior masquerades. The subject refers to a water spirit, anjenu, .the scarification that divides the forehead is typical of the Idoma, as well as the prominent scars on the temples. Minor cracks. The Idoma settled at the confluence of the Benue and Niger rivers. The members of the royal lineage of their Oglinye society, glorifying courage, use masks and crests during funerals and festivities. The Janiform crests are generally exhibited at the funerals of notables. The members of the male Kwompten society, for their part, used statues called goemai as part of healing rituals. Crusty matte patina. Minor erosions and cracks. Ref. "arts of Nigeria" 5continents.