Mask Item Number: 2704/1 a-c from the MOA: University of British Columbia
Description
Mami Wata mask. Oval pink face mask (part a). On top of the mask sits a yellow figure with movable arms, wearing a black hat and green dress. Also on top are two black circles with mirrors on movable posts and a yellow curved piece with two mirrors. The mask itself has painted black hair, various designs and red lips with white teeth. There are oval openings for the wearer's eyes. A second yellow curved piece with two mirrors is loose (part b). A carved wooden umbrella painted dark brown is part c. The back is unpainted.
Iconographic Meaning
Mami Wata is a water spirit associated with wealth, education, success, and beauty. Her cult began in the Caribbean in the 20th century before travelling to Africa, first appearing the Niger Delta and Liberia. Now they are venerated in West, Central, and Southern Africa, as well as the African diaspora in the Americas. Mami Wata is often depicted as a voluptuous young woman with pale skin, long black hair, and snakes curled around her.
Item History
- Made in Nigeria
- Owned by Laurice Durham-Aldridge and Anthony Durham-Aldridge
- Owned by Carmel Magnusson and Terry Aldridge before March 19, 2008
- Received from Carmel Magnusson (Donor) and Terry Aldridge (Donor) on March 19, 2008
What
Who
- Culture
- Ibibio
- Previous Owner
- Laurice Durham-Aldridge, Anthony Durham-Aldridge, Carmel Magnusson and Terry Aldridge
- Received from
- Carmel Magnusson (Donor) and Terry Aldridge (Donor)
Where
- Holding Institution
- MOA: University of British Columbia
- Made in
- Nigeria
When
- Ownership Date
- before March 19, 2008
- Acquisition Date
- on March 19, 2008
Other
- Condition
- fair
- Accession Number
- 2704/0001 a-c