Ijo Water Spirit Headdress Antique African Mask Nigeria

A Fabulous Old Ijo Female Figural Otojo Water Spirit Headdress Mask
Antique African Art - Tribal Sculpture - Niger Delta, Nigeria

Collected from the: Ijo peoples of the Niger River Delta in Nigeria, West Africa
Material: Wood, pigment, kaolin, plant fiber, skin and/or palm oil
Period: Early to mid 20th century, conservatively
Dimensions: 23" total height; figure is 14.5" height, 5.25" width, 3.5" depth on 9" outermost rattan base diameter; weight is 2.00 pounds
Exceptional Condition: No damage - good signs of wear, age and authentic tribal use. Held in private collection, the condition of this piece remains unchanged from the time of its late 1950's field acquisition. Minute age cracks test stable and present no further threat to this delightful old headdress. The gentle spirit of this older Otojo is readily apparent through her facial expression and the beautiful warm patina earned only through time and use. Make special note of the surface condition and wear in the detailed photos below - the gorgeous slightly weat d pigment displays highlights of lighter natural wood tones and kaolin - stunning !

Please to fully appreciate this delightful masque!