Anonymous

Igbo, Nigeria

Locust Spirit Face Mask

20th century

Wood

Gift of Marcia and Irwin Hersey

1991.27

The Igbo people of Southeastern Nigeria are famous for the variety and exuberance of their masquerade performances. This is probably a youthful male “locust spirit,” a type of mask generally used by young men during dry-season festivals. This is only a small part of the costume, as with many of the masks on view here. Bright patchwork clothing and an elaborate headdress would complete it.

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