An Ibo Maiden mask, Nigeria, of hollowed helmet-like form, Agbogho Mmwo, pierced around the rim for attachments, the thin walled face with a slightly open mouth and raised angular lips, beneath a slendere triangular nose, narrow sliteyes and arched brows, wearing an elaborate three parted coiffure; colourful encrusted patina with different layers of pigments.

"This mask represents numerous attributes of the ideal of feminine beauty amongst the Ibo. Each year "maiden" masks were carved for "The Fame of Maidens" annual festival in the north central region of Iboland. These adolescent female masks, or agbogho mmanwu, are danced by men in an exaggerated manner. The festival serves to underline the idealsof feminine beauty and morality as "Maidens are the pride of there fathers, the source of bride-wealth upon their forthcoming marriages.The ideal beauty of a girl has both physical and moral dimensions. Physically she "should" be tall and lithe, with an upright posture and stately carriage. Ideally she will have fine facial features - a thin straight nose and a small mouth - an her hair will be elaborately and delicately dressed in the preferred crested style...These ideals link too with the beauty of nature and valued medicines..Her moral qualities will include purity, obedience, good character, and generosity" (Cole and Aniakor 1982:121).

Lit.: Basden. 1966; Borgatti 1979; Boston 1977; Cole 1982; Ottenberg, 1972; Weston 1984;

sold

Height: 28 cm
Weight: 1 kg