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Rare African mask called "Agbogho Mmwo" carved polychrome wood and fabric, representing the face of a young woman, origin Igbo Nigeria, XIXth century.
This mask is in good condition, in its juice, it is of exceptional quality.
A note: some accidents, cracks and gaps on the triple headdress, some holes old worms, lack of polychrome especially on the face, wear time, look at the photos.
Mask representing the spirit of a girl; its shape, its physiological features, its scarifications, its decorations on the face and its complex hairstyle are all characteristic elements of the ideal feminine beauty in igbos. The young people of the "mmwo spirit" society wore these masks during the initiation ceremony for young girls, to instruct and educate young people not only in moral conduct but also in the canons of physical beauty, which in reality reflect ethics of the person. So too, the size, a correct posture, a fine and straight nose, a small mouth symbolize generosity, purity, obedience and a good character. These dances were also held during the harvest and during the dry season, for the feast of the goddess of the Earth in the hope of a rich and abundant harvest. (See website Vatican Museums)
