Helmet Mask (Mammy Wata)
Artist/Maker
Nigeria, Igbo people
Artist/Maker
Ibibio people
Nigeria
Date20th century
CultureIgbo
Mediumwood, paint, plant fiber, iron and hair
DimensionsOverall: 30 1/2 x 12 3/8 x 12 1/4 in. (77.5 x 31.4 x 31.1 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGift of Alan Potamkin
Terms
Object number2007.48.44
On View
On viewCollections
DescriptionMammy Wata is a new water spirit inspired by chromolithographs of a Hindu female deity seen in the shops of Indian merchants in the cities. The largely urban cult helps its devotees cope with the displacement and stress of Europeanization and city life.- Art of Africa
