Anthropomorphic face mask "mfon ekpo" with horns

wood, base

The theme of duality, an underlying motif throughout the art of Africa, is demonstrated in many ways in the masking traditions of southeastern Nigeria. Its most obvious manifestation is found in Ibibio "ekpo" society masquerades.

Here, representations of unrestrained and dangerous dark spirits "idiok ekpo" of those who have died socially undesirable deaths are juxtaposed with the serene pale countenances of beneficial and revered spirits "mfon ekpo".