A magnificent Ishan Mask, Nigeria

of deeply hollowed form, the oval face with two-layered beard, semi-circular mouth with wood inset teeth, pierced crescent-shaped eyes and a doomed forehead surmounted by an elaborate coiffure; fine aged medium-brown patina with layers of kaolin and encrustation. 

Acquired by the present owner in Belgium

excellent condition overall; age cracks on forehead as seen on photographs; chips to left and top of rim, one pyramidal element on top of coiffure broken, two more chipped, as seen on photographs; nicks and scratches, areas of abrasion from traditional use; fine aged medium-brown patina with layers of kaolin and encrustation, encrustation partially chipped as seen on images.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

For a closely relateded example see Mattet (2007: 162). According to Barley (in ibid.: 163), the "Ishan are an Edo-speaking people living somewhat to the north and east of the better-knownBenin kingdom that shares a similar language. It seems likely that Ishan masquerades, like others under the influence of Benin, have an antithetical relationship with those of the royal capital, Benin City. Typically, such village cults are in firm opposition to the royal cults of the Benin Empire and represent heroes, heroines and deities that may have resisted the centralising influence of Benin and its obas (kings).

"Consequently, such images and performances are only allowed within city limits under the strictest controls and at specific periods. While the identification of individual headpieces with individual personae remains highly speculative, several masks of this style have been reliably traced to the village of Amaho and share the same distinctive high ears, raised lips, slanting eyes, and elaborate hair and beard."