Angas mask, Plateau State region of northeastern Nigeria
plant fibers woven together and decorated with red abrus seeds and tufts of cotton
20” tall (including attachments) x 8” wide x 9” deep
Ex private US collection, reportedly collected in the 1930-1940’s
These masks were originally attributed to the Koro people of Nigeria but were recently reattributed to the Angas people. Unlike most masks, which are typically made of wood, these are constructed from woven plant fibers. Despite their uncommon material, they possess a strong sculptural form and are highly expressive, with large rectangular eyes and mouth. The red abrus seeds are individually strung and attached to the woven mask structure, and cotton balls are affixed to the ends of the seed strings around the bottom rim of the mask, though some are missing on this example.
SOLD $800 plus shipping
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