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| Epa, helmet mask |
| Based on its stylistic features, this mask could be the work of master carver Bamgboye of Odo Owa, Yoruba |
| Wood |
| 19th to mid-20th century |
| Area of Origin: Nigeria, Africa |
| Gift of Clarence Titcombe in memory of the Reverend Thomas Titcombe |
| 989.130.1 | | ROM2004_946_13 | | |
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Description: Epa festivals take place in the northeastern kingdoms of the Yoruba region in Nigeria. Intended to ensure the fertility and welfare of the community, the festival features spectacular dances performed by young men. The dancers make their appearance carrying elaborate masks on their heads which are carved from a single piece of wood. The central figure in this mask could be a priest or a diviner identifies by the hat, the divination board and the ritual accoutrements the surround him. Based on its stylistic features, this mask could be the work of master carver Bamgboye of Odo Owa. |
Exhibit History: Shreyas and Mina Ajmera Gallery of Africa, the Americas and Asia-Pacific, April 2008-November 2010 |
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