Igbo Helmet Mask, Nigeria

Possibly Vittorio Mangiò, Monza
Charles Ratton, Paris
Pierre M. Schlumberger, Houston, acquired from the above on September 15, 1970

Igbo Helmet Masks (agbogho mmwo), represent female spirits and were worn by men in masquerades to portray the feminine ideal. The present mask bears a colorful headdress composed of a central semi-circular crest decorated with alternating blue and white pegs. The central portion is flanked on either side by four smaller decorative crests. The coiffure exhibits a repeated pattern of tight spirals, the curved hairline on the forehead outlined by a bright orange pigment. The coiled motif is repeated on either side of the eyes, accentuated with a vibrant blue pigment, which extends onto the eyebrows. A delicate nose sits atop a grinning mouth. The present mask exudes a vibrant energy and character, one that would certainly have contributed to its impressive presence during performances.