Horizontal Mask (Okobuzogui)
Datenot dated
Mediumwood and accumulative materials
DimensionsOverall: 23 5/8 x 9 3/8 x 9 1/4 in. (60 x 23.8 x 23.5 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGift of Alan Potamkin
Object number2012.2.1
DescriptionThis fine, old mask with alligator jaws and ram's horns appears to have been cleansed of much of its offering material, although there are still traces of encrustation visible. It has been identified as Okobuzogui, nephew of Afwi, the Great Spirit of the Forest. It is "worn" by the wearer gripping the mask with his hands and holding it horizontally over his head. Layers of animal skins hanging from the mask conceal the upper part of the wearer's body, leaving his lower legs and feet bare. It is probably the most important of all Loma (Toma) masks as it related to communal ancestors.
