Cap mask (Egungun)

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONThis mask is worn during annual or biennial celebrations called Odun Egungun, a time when the Yoruba honor the ancestors.WHERE WAS IT MADE?This was made in the southwest of Nigeria, where the Yoruba people live.HOW WAS IT MADE?This mask was hand carved from wood with tools such as an adze, knives and chisels, and colored with natural pigments.HOW WAS IT USED?Rather than serve as a mask that conceals a masquerade performer, the Egungun mask rests on top of the performer’s head, attached to a leather cap that holds it in place. The performer’s face is wrapped in a mesh covering. The Egungun costume form varies, but most cover the performer with layers of brightly colored fabric panels. A popular movement calls for the dancer to twirl in space, lifting and flapping the panels in a multicolored whirlwind.WHY DOES IT LOOK LIKE THIS?This well-carved and balanced mask was likely introduced into the art market due to its condition – termites consumed large amounts of the sculpture. Because cleanliness and a neat appearance is fundamental to Yoruba sculpture, the owners apparently decided to sell this piece and make another, rather than attempt to repair the damage.The Yoruba hold annual or biennial celebrations called Odun Egungun to honor the ancestors, deceased individuals who nonetheless play a role in everyday Yoruba life. Notice the dominance of the color red, particularly on the mask’s red face. The use of red suggests that this mask refers to, but does not depict, the thunder god Shango. Egungun masquerades are often associated with rituals conducted for this powerful deity.Look at the male and female figures that flank a “mating couple.” Each figure holds a double-headed axe symbolizing Shango. Easily infuriated, Shango hurls thunderbolts at humans who anger him. Evidence of these thunderbolts appears in the form of triangular-shaped stones, or celts, that Yoruba people find in the forest. The axe heads have also been associated with Shango’s swift, yet balanced judgment.Notice that the red figures also hold a cudgel or pestle. Because the Egungun masquerade often incorporates humor in its performances and iconography, this object may be a visual pun referring to the phallus, or may literally depict the cudgel (ogo) carried by devotees of Shango.The “mating couple” in the center of the sculpture may be interpreted in several ways: to ridicule sexual promiscuity, to highlight the importance of procreation, and to express concerns regarding impotence and barrenness.