Maiden Spirit Mask Item Number: Af337 from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Mmwo helmet mask. Carved from a single piece of wood, the mask depicts a female face with a large ornate coiffure. A circular crescent, around a concentric circular plaque, rests on top of the head. Portions of the crest and parts of the hair are painted purple, also inside the nostrils. Black scarification marks spiral on the cheeks and are crosshatched on the forehead and the temples. Four loops of scarification drop from black painted lips. Eyes are small and narrow. Eyebrows have curly black hair glued on. A neckpiece of yellow, red, black, and white felt with purple and natural cotton is attached to the back by metal hooks.
History Of Use
The masks are performed by men as masqueraders for middle grade initiation in the men’s secret society. They are also danced at festivals during the dry season to promote abundant harvest and at funerals of prominent members of society to escort the dead to the spirit world. The dancers mime the graceful movements and deportment of young women and sing in praise of both real and spirit maidens. The elaborate upper section is meant to portray nineteenth century ceremonial hairstyles that evoke wealth and royalty.
Narrative
This mask was purchased in the US, from a dealer, between 1950 and 1970.
Iconographic Meaning
Maiden spirts represent delicate beauty and the feminine character. The spiritual and moral qualities of young women are idealized through exaggerated small features and a pale complexion.
Cultural Context
performance; dancing
Item History
- Made in Nigeria during 1950
- Owned by Alan R. Sawyer and Erika H. Sawyer before May 1, 1977
- Received from Alan R. Sawyer (Donor) and Erika H. Sawyer (Donor) on May 1, 1977
What
Who
- Culture
- Igbo
- Previous Owner
- Alan R. Sawyer and Erika H. Sawyer
- Received from
- Alan R. Sawyer (Donor) and Erika H. Sawyer (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Nigeria
When
- Creation Date
- during 1950
- Ownership Date
- before May 1, 1977
- Acquisition Date
- on May 1, 1977
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Current Location
- Case 98
- Accession Number
- 0350/0011