Title

YORUBA Culture Of Arts West African ethnic group that mainly inhabits parts of Nigeria, Benin and Togo that constitute Yorubaland - (Water Spirit Mask)

Creator

Prairie View A&M University

Preview

Description

This water spirit headdress is used in the masquerades of the Ekine men's society. The headdresses worn in such performances blend the features of humans and aquatic animals. Although they are worn with a cloth and palm costume that covers the entire body, the headdress is the key element that is conceived of as the seat of the masquerade spirit's "owner." They constitute a highly appreciated form of entertainment and invoke local water spirits for assistance and guidance. Skilled performers gain status in the community and are also the arbitrators of personal disputes.

Culture and Traditions

In Africa, the Yoruba are contiguous with the Yoruboid Itsekiri to the southeast in the northwest Niger Delta, Bariba to the northwest in Benin and Nigeria, and the Nupe to the north, and the Ebira to the northeast in central Nigeria. To the east are the Edo, Ẹsan, and Afemai groups in mid-western Nigeria.

Donation Details

Mr. & Mrs. Steve Primoff donated in the year 2003.

Notes

The Appraised Amount is $ 10,000.00.

Date of Digitization

7/21/2022

Contributing Institution

J. B . Coleman Library

Rights

© 2021 Prairie View A & M University

Recommended Citation

Prairie View A&M University, "YORUBA Culture Of Arts West African ethnic group that mainly inhabits parts of Nigeria, Benin and Togo that constitute Yorubaland - (Water Spirit Mask)" (2022). African Sculptures and Masks. 70.
https://digitalcommons.pvamu.edu/african-sculptures-and-masks/70