14131 - Ejagham Dance Headpiece, Anthropomorphic Ancestral Figure, Nigeria / Cameroon, African Tribal Art

Ejagham Dance Headpiece, Anthropomorphic Ancestral Figure, Nigeria / Cameroon, African Tribal Art Expressive African dance headpiece made of carved wood, attributed to the Ejagham cultural group—also known as the Ekoi—in the border region between Nigeria and Cameroon. This extraordinary figure is characterized by its striking facial features, powerfully modeled limbs, and a dark brown to reddish surface patina. Particularly striking is the disproportionately large head with narrow, brightly highlighted eyes, a broad nose, and a wide-open mouth with clearly defined teeth. Several button-like protrusions adorn the rounded skull. On the back of the head are remnants of a fibrous hair covering. The compact body features sculpted arms and legs, some of which are crafted as separate elements. The lower section consists of a braided structure made of plant material, which presumably served for fastening or for carrying during ceremonial dances. Dance headpieces of this type are associated with traditional masks and dance ceremonies, in which ancestral beliefs, spiritual forces, and social rituals can play an important role. • Origin: Africa, Nigeria / Cameroon; attributed to the Ejagham cultural group • Object type: Figurative dance headpiece, possibly depicting ancestors or a ritual scene • Material: Carved wood with a woven lower section made of plant fibers • Depiction: Anthropomorphic figure with a large head, pronounced facial features, and three-dimensionally rendered limbs • Face: Light-colored eye areas, wide-open mouth with visible teeth, and a prominent forehead • Distinctive features: Button-like protrusions on the head, fibrous remnants of hair, and separately crafted limbs • Surface: Dark, partially reddish-brown patina with remnants of light pigmentation • Condition: Surface marks due to age and use, cracks, and partial losses. Limbs are shown separately in some of the detailed photos; see photos. Dimensions: Height approx. 28 cm, width approx. 12 cm.