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Idoma Igbo Ibo Okua Antique African Funeral Mask Nigeria
An Exquisite Idoma Okua Funeral Mask Antique African Tribal Art - Cross River, Nigeria
Collected from the: Southern Idoma peoples of the Cross River region of Nigeria, West Africa. Also attributed to the Igbo Ibo peoples of the region. Material: Hardwood, pigment, kaolin (white clay), oil Period: Mid 20th century Dimensions: 10.75" height, 7.25" width, 5" depth; weight is 1.05 pounds Condition: Exceptional - no damage, hairline age cracks test stable, all nicks/scuffs present significant patination. Smooth, worn interior, burnished patina with skin oil residue along interior rim indicative of use - the serene expression evokes a riveting spiritual presence!
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Idoma Funeral Masks: Besides the Okwute scepters of the dead chiefs, masking traditions represent the most sacred realities of the Idoma country. The Alekwu cult holds an essential central role in all Idoma traditions which have no Igala, Igbo or Ogoja origins. In the south-west, the Idoma have been in contact with the northern Igbo whose creative art exercised a considerable influence on the Idoma who borrowed the Igbo masks for their own use. In the south and south-west, styles were influenced by white painted masks while other works bear the mark of the Middle Cross River traditions. Of the four main stylistic trends, the first classification encompasses masks with morphological features borrowed from the Middle Cross River institutions with an anthropomorphous facial mask featuring almond-shaped eyes, a flat nose, a large to semi-open mouth. Protruding scarifications down the center of the forehead and at the temples, linked to the ears with two curved vertical lines. Known as an Okua, this type of mask comes from the Ikom region and is used by the southern Idoma, the Osokum clan of the Boki, and the Idoma-Iyala. The Okua masks often dance in pairs and can be seen at funeral ceremonies. See The Arts of the Benue for further details on the cultures of this region.
Idoma Tribal History “Living at the confluence of the Benue and Niger Rivers, the 500,000 Idoma people are predominantly farmers and traders. The Idoma, Afo, Igala, Nupe, and Tiv people living along the banks of these rivers share many social and artistic traditions. They are thought to have common ancestors known as the Akpoko people. Traditionally, they principally make their money by acting as trade intermediaries between the inland people and the people who inhabit the Niger River Delta.” according to Bacquart.
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*The estimated delivery time is based on the seller's handling time, the shipping service selected, and when the seller receives cleared payment. Sellers are not responsible for shipping service transit times. Transit times may vary, particularly during peak periods.
Please contact us immediately if ~ for any reason ~ you are not pleased with your selection. We will gladly refund the purchase price of any item returned in its original condition within 14 days of dated delivery. Our commitment to 5 Star customer service and satisfaction ensures that YOUR satisfaction is Unconditionally Guaranteed ~ NO questions asked!
The buyer is responsible for return shipping costs.
We are delighted to combine shipments and reduce your costs, simply email your Zip/Postal Code PRIOR to making payment. All major credit cards and PayPal are gladly accepted. Payment is expected within 7 days of your purchase. In consideration of discounts given, we respectfully request immediate payment on all Best Offers unless arrangements are made prior to acceptance. Please contact us directly if other payment arrangements are necessary - we're always happy to help!
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