A wooden helmet mask of the Igala from Nigeria. The collection catalogue lists it as a dance mask, together with a second mask of the same kind.

1. Form and Carving

The mask covers the whole head. An elongated oval face is framed by a raised rim and sits below a ridged, pointed cap. The eyes are narrow slits under heavy lids, the nose is long and straight, and the small mouth has a pointed lower lip and a cut opening below it. Ears project from either side of the head. Below the face, the carving continues into a tall, smooth, slightly flaring neck that would have rested over the wearer's shoulders.

2. Context

The collection catalogue refers the reader to comparable Igala masks in the collection.

3. Surface

The upper face and brow are worn lighter, with a brown, encrusted patina and fine vertical grain on the forehead. The nose, lips and eye sockets are darker. The neck is dark and smooth. Small losses are visible along the lower edge, where the wood has chipped.

Summary

An Igala helmet mask with an elongated face and a ridged cap, carved in wood for dance.