Mask

Anthropomorphic Ekpo mask from the Ibibio people of Nigeria, with a surface painted in red, yellow, white, and green. It features a broad forehead, a slender nose, and full lips concealing the teeth. It is probably a mask embodying the spirit of a diviner (Idiong), as suggested by the white coloration around the eyes, the distinctive mark of diviner-healers and their clairvoyance. The work is part of the Bassani Collection (inv. AFR 00050 2513A).

Photo: Paolo Vandrasch, Milano; Giuliano Spagnul, Milano; Vivi Papi, Varese.

Courtesy MUDEC, Milano.