Cap Crest Mask (Idiok Ekpo)
Artist/Maker
Ibibio people
(Nigeria)
Datenot dated
Mediumwood, stain and pigment
DimensionsOverall: 23 1/8 x 9 1/8 x 8 in. (58.7 x 23.2 x 20.3 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGift of Alan Potamkin
Terms
Object number2007.48.121
DescriptionThe Ibibio Ekpo Society uses threatening masks to reinforce social and moral conformity. This mask is not as grotesque as most of the Idiok Ekpo (evil ghosts) category to which it belongs. Yet it does have all the essential ingredients. It is large, dark, has threatening horns and most of all, a huge mouth open to expose fang-like incisors. Instead of separate eyebrows, there is one long brow arching across the forehead in a way that almost suggests the head ring worn by titled elders of the highest grade of Ekpo. The naturalistic carving of the cheeks and nose suggest that this may be from the Anang Ibibio area famous for its realistic style.On View
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