A large Epa mask of the Yoruba, Nigeria, measuring about 150 by 60 by 60 cm, from the legacy of Amidou Kouandou, Grand Imam and notable of ministerial rank in the Sultanate of Foumban, who died in 2014.

1. Composition

The collection catalogue stresses two things about the carving. First, the prominent figure of a rider on a horse or mule. Second, the variety of small figures arranged around the rider. The catalogue does not claim particularly fine workmanship; it values the carver's effort to build a rich and imposing superstructure.

2. Purpose

The catalogue reads the mask as a deliberately representative piece. The carver was trying to create a mask with which the wearer and his family could appear at festivals and be shown respect by their fellow tribesmen. The crowd of small figures and the central rider therefore serve display and standing as much as any narrative.

3. Provenance

The mask comes from the estate of Amidou Kouandou, Grand Imam and notable of the Sultanate of Foumban, in Cameroon. It reached Foumban through a collector of rank, which is part of its documented history.

Summary

A tall Yoruba Epa mask whose rider figure and many small attendants were meant to present the wearer and his family with dignity at festivals.