MSSU African Art Exibit : The MSSU African Art collection features a variety of authentic works of art from various tribes located throughout Central Africa. The objects in the collection range from mundane day to day grooming tools to ritualistic masks and statues.
Title:
Helmet Mask
Object Name:
Mask, Ritual
Other Name:
Mask, Helmet
Place of Origin:
Egungun/Yoruba, Nigeria, Africa
Provenance:
Aboriginal Indigenous Art.
H = 25—1/2"
W = 11"
D = 16"

The figure on top of the helmet has a traditional bridal head—dressing: a raised single—crested coiffure with incised triangular motifs. This coiffure is called irun agogo, which is
commonly related to marriage.

Such images of the female represent a manifestation of Yoruba ideals of beauty and the gods’ power to bequeath fertility. The carver has carefully executed
the figure’s composition to conform to Yoruba traditions as well as to achieve a great sense of equilibrium.
Description:
Helmet mask with large head. Crescent—shaped headdress painted blue, combed from head to outer edges of black and blue hairstyle, extended from back of head. White face, bulgy forehead, large open eyes, short broad nose. Protruding open lips, pointed chin, crescent—shaped ears, cylindrical neck. Spiral design carved on side of neck, attached to half—circled helmet shaped headdress, with holes around body of the helmet.
Collection:
Finley Collection
Material:
Wood W/Paint
Used:
Ritually Used
Technique:
Carving / Painting
Owned:
Art Department, Missouri Southern State University
Accession#:
2014.1.26
Click to Enlarge
Front ViewFront View
Right Side ViewRight Side View
Left Side ViewLeft Side View
Rear ViewRear View