85 - Ancient female mask of the Mmwo type with a tall, carved headdress, Igbo (Ibo), Nigeria.

Ancient female mask of the Mmwo type with a tall, carved headdress, Igbo (Ibo), Nigeria. A carved wooden mask depicting a female face with half-closed eyes, a tapered nose, and cheeks adorned with diagonal scarifications. The light polychrome paintwork in shades of ochre contrasts with a striking dark headdress, finely grid-patterned, topped by a tall central crest and two arched, fluted side elements. Beautiful antique patina, showing wear on the polychrome, abrasions, and erosion that is particularly visible on the upper elements of the headdress. The interior retains traces of carving and an old collection label. Museum reference: Comparable to an anthropomorphic mmwo mask of Igbo/Idoma culture held at the Musée du Quai Branly – Jacques Chirac, Paris, formerly from the Barbier-Mueller Collection, inventory number 73.1996.1.51, height 45.5 cm. Both examples feature a headdress of particularly similar construction. Includes base. Height: 50 cm