A West African , Nigerian Ibibio Maiden Spirit Helmet Mask with superstructure
A West African , Nigerian Ibibio Maiden Spirit Helmet Mask with superstructure . Carved wood and pigments
Late 19 th Century – Early 20 th Century
Size : 51 cm high , 23 cm wide – 20 ins high , 9 ins wide
Late 19 th Century – Early 20 th Century
Size : 51 cm high , 23 cm wide – 20 ins high , 9 ins wide
Representing a beautiful spirit who has attained eternal bliss , this three quarter length helmet mask was used by the Mmwo society of the Ibibio . The crested top probably represents an elaborate hairdo . It has a refined facial expression that characterises the femininity of the idealised maiden spirit .
A West African , Nigerian Ibibio Maiden Spirit Helmet Mask with superstructure

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