African Tribal Igbo Royalty Male Mask Nigeria 14.25 ” H

This African Igbo royalty mask from Nigeria measures approximately 14.25″ in height, 8″ in width, and 6″ in depth. It is made of painted wood and depicts a male character with a striking headdress. In Igbo culture, masks are an important part of men’s dancing societies and hold a wide range of symbolic meanings. These masked dancers, known as mmanwu, go by different names within local groups. Masks are also used to initiate young boys into adulthood and to confer higher status in men’s societies. Exquisitely carved and adorned with colorful costumes, these masks are also used to honor the deceased and symbolize the beauty of young girls as spirit maidens.