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Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
Helmet Crest Mask (Idiok Ekpo)
Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
© Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami. All rights reserved.

Helmet Crest Mask (Idiok Ekpo)

Artist/Maker (Nigeria)
Datenot dated
Mediumwood, stain and pigment
DimensionsOverall: 12 x 9 1/8 x 9 in. (30.5 x 23.2 x 22.9 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGift of Alan Potamkin
Terms
    Object number2007.48.113
    DescriptionThis particular mask is fairly serene for the type of mask it seems to be because of its deformities. It is undoubtedly one of the Idiok Ekpo evil souls. It has lost its lips and nose due to disease, perhaps leprosy, thought to be inflicted upon those who have been criminals, suicides, or just socially unfortunate people with no family or home. Idiok Ekpo masks are always painted black with white accents and red to emphasize the sores or deformities. This mask is not as hideous as most in this category. The costume worn with these masks consists of waist length raffia fibers and ragged and dirty cloth clothing. They carry weapons or sticks and engage in threatening and destructive behavior.
    On View
    Not on view
    Collections
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Ibibio people
    not dated
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Ibibio people
    not dated
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Ibibio people
    not dated
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Ibibio people
    not dated
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Lwalu people
    not dated
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Jukun people
    not dated
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Lula people
    not dated
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Dan people
    early 20th century
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Teotihuacán
    ca. 250-550
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Dan people
    20th century
    Collection of the Lowe Art Museum, University of Miami
    Baulé people
    not dated