Janus Helmet Mask Mgbedike Igbo Nigeria

Extraordinary, spectacular and powerful Janus IBO or IGALA helmet mask Hard and heavy wood covered with copper or brass plates on the faces Gazelle horns at its top, numerous cowries and beaded glasses Remains of rope nets covering the nape and neck Extremely menacing facial expression Mouth half open revealing the teeth scarifications on the cheeks Janus wooden head at its top between the 4 gazelle horns Total height 44cm by 33cm wide Evocation of power, this mask called MGBEDIKE, or "the times of the brave" works by harnessing the power of the natural world through a composite of shapes and materials. The facial features are not distinctly animal or human but oscillate between the two categories The IGBO people of South-Eastern Nigeria create and execute a wide variety of spiritual masks that embody the themes of mystery, bravado and supernatural power free shipping worldwide