Rams Head Antiques

Description

This is a very large early 20th century Yoruba Epa masquerade mask with large hooded eyes, broad nose and open mouth, all surmounted by the figure of a warrior on horseback. The warrior holds a large spear with attendant woman to one side, decorated in bright blue and orange pigments.
The large head / mask is hollowed out to wear as a headdress in annual ceremonies to honour the dead. They serve as a means of assuring their ancestors a place among the living. They believe the ancestors have the responsibility to compel the living to uphold the ethical standards of the past generations of their clan, town or family. The Egungun are celebrated in festivals known as Odin Egungun and in family rituals through the masquerade custom.

The piece measures 105 cms high 44 cms deep by 36 cms wide.

Provenance
Property of a Gentleman.

From the residual contents of Stanhope Castle, Bishop Auckland.
UK delivery can be arranged with our trusted furniture courier and costs £55 plus vat to most destinations.