Early 20th Century Head Crest Mask (Egungun). Yoruba Culture, Nigeria

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This Yoruba Egungun mask is the spiritual embodiment of the Yoruba ancestors. Egungun headdresses may manifest recently deceased spirits who have returned to the world of the living to see their families before journeying into the spirit world.

This Egungun mask exhibits fine features, with typical Yoruba facial markings. The mask’s round face has been decorated with natural pigments, and is crowned by a crescent-shaped, downward-facing coiffure.

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Ex Private Collection, UK

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Estimated Period: First Quarter of 20th Century

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W: 25cm 

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