Face Mask (Okoroshi)
Artist/Maker
Nigeria, Igbo people
Datenot dated
Mediumwood and paint
DimensionsOverall: 9 3/8 x 4 1/8 x 3 1/8 in. (23.8 x 10.5 x 7.9 cm)
ClassificationsCostumes and Accessories
Credit LineGift of Alan Potamkin
Terms
Object number2012.2.13
DescriptionThe Okoroshi masquerade features two main types of masks: dark, grotesque male masks and fine-featured, white-faced female masks such as this one. Okoroshi is danced to honor the water spirit(s), Owu, during the rainy season when these spirits descend to the earth for a time to associate with humans. Each masked spirit has its own name and personality, conforming to one of the two types mentioned above.On View
Not on viewCollections