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Description
OGONI
Articulated mask
20th century.
Height: 30 cm.
An IR spectroscopy dating certificate (G. Matthaes patent) from the Museo d’Arte e Scienza, Milan, no. 6AF-3717, indicates the date as 1937 ± 8 years.
Light wood covered with a thick, dark, crusty patina over the entire mask, except for the lips and ears, which are covered with a red patina.
The lower part of the face is detachable. The unique feature of Ogoni masks is this articulated jaw. Unlike the majority of African masks, which are carved from a single block, this mask has a movable lower jaw.
Provenance:
Pierre Redouin Collection.
Description:
During the dance, the dancer wearing this type of mask would snap the jaw rhythmically, creating a sharp sound that punctuated the music.
This is an anthropomorphic ‘elu’ mask, with a high forehead and almond-shaped eyes. The word ‘elu’ means ‘spirit’. This type of mask represents the spirit of an ancestor and a high-ranking figure, although it may be used in village plays to embody social types (the old man, the stranger, the vain man). It was brought out during the ceremonies of secret societies to ensure compliance with the clan’s laws.
The Ogoni have managed to maintain a very strong artistic identity despite cultural pressure from their powerful neighbours, making their masks highly sought-after original pieces.
See original version (French)
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About the sale
The Breath of the Spirits: The Collection of Pierre Redouin and Others
Auction location
Auction time
09/24/2026 at 2:30 PM
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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