Impressive helmet - Epa - Nigeria

This monumental mask-helmet is attributed to Bamgbòṣẹ, who resided at Osí-Ìlọrin, in the emirate of the Sokoto Islamic caliphate until 1903, the date of its conquest by British colonial forces. Epa masks commemorate illustrious members of the family and honor the values of their ancestors. Carved from a single block of wood, this imposing mask was worn during public festivals. The dancer, balancing the double-faced helmet on his head and shoulders, performed a somersault on a mound during the dance. The elaborately structured mask’s superstructure, composed of several levels and representing court servants – messengers, soldiers, drums, chanters, and figures associated with the òrìṣàs (Yoruba deities) – surrounds a sovereign or a horseman. Yoruba artists frequently depicted horses to underline military prowess during the Kiriji War, the series of conflicts among Yoruba kingdoms in the late 19th century.

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