89 - Widekum Mask, Western Cameroon, Cross River Region, Ngi–Ngwo–Abegum area.

Widekum Mask, Western Cameroon, Cross River Region, Ngi–Ngwo–Abegum area. An ancient anthropomorphic mask carved from wood, with a powerfully geometric face featuring deeply carved, openwork quadrangular eyes and mouth, surmounted by two upright horns. Thick black patina, cracked and irregular, revealing traces of reddish pigmentation and significant signs of age. This unique work can be compared to the Widekum sculptural variants from the Ngi–Ngwo–Abegum region, where fowidekum masks without skin covering have been documented, unlike the classic examples covered in leather. An interesting testament to the artistic traditions of this contact zone between the Grassfields and the Cross River Basin. Including base Height: 34 cm