Yoruba Mask
Nigeria
A mask constructed along a vertical axis, the form organised through a tiered composition comprising a rounded facial base and an integrated figural superstructure.
Description
Carved from a single wood block, the base presents a rounded head with heavy-lidded eyes, a broad nose, and a small closed mouth contained within a continuous curved volume. A small carved projection is set at the crown, marking the transition to the superstructure, while the lower perimeter is pierced by a series of suspension holes. Above, a seated monkey figure rises from the crown, gripping the upper edges of two projecting lateral panels bordered by serrated edges. The monkey is distinguished by a bared-teeth mouth and projecting ears and supports a horizontally positioned cylindrical drum articulated with carved encircling bands.
Surface is compact and stable. Pigment is retained across the facial base and upper figure, with exposure at raised elements.
Context
Among the Yoruba, masks of this type are used within masquerade performance associated with ancestral and ceremonial structures.
Provenance
From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Nigeria, 1984.
Details
- Title
- Yoruba Mask
- Culture
- Yoruba
- Origin
- Nigeria
- Date
- 20th century
- Dimensions
- H 49 cm (19.3 in) · W 32 cm (12.6 in)
- Medium
- Wood with pigment
- Provenance
- From the Felice Maffei Collection, acquired in Nigeria, 1984.
