These Janus-faced helmet masks are rare among the Ibo and occur only in their northeastern area of settlement among the subgroups of the Izzi, Ezza and Ikwo. They are intended to represent important ancestors. The present, stunningly well-preserved old specimen is made of light-coloured, lightweight wood. The mask features two typical and well-carved Ibo faces opposite each other, with only small differences (the forms of the scarification marks). Both faces are coloured in white by means of kaolin, the rest, including all details, is black. The hairstyle displays circular patterns and grooves in relief, which also occur in other types of Ibo masks. The head of Janus is surmounted on either side by two ‘wheels’ with star-shaped ‘spokes’. Their centre is set with two rectangular mirrors. Separately carved black plaits are attached to either side of the coiffure by means of rattan stripes. In the middle of the hair parting was formerly lodged a further, central ‘wheel’ (now lost, but the fastening hole is still visible). Overall a very rare and old example of an Ibo Janus-faced mask, with good usage patina on the outside as well as on the inside, and minor age-related damage (colour scuffed, small tears and minor pieces broken off). Between c. 1900 and the first third of the 20th century; H: 47 cm. (ME)

Provenance: Czech private collection.

Lit.: ‘Igbo Arts’ by Cole & Aniakor, ill. 267; ‘Igbo’ by Cole, ill. 47.