This mask type of the Ibo-Izzi, a subgroup of the Ibo, is actually a dance crest. The elephant mask 'ogbodo enyi' is worn horizontally on top of the head. A soft ring made of woven plant fibres serves as ‘padding’. Formally, the ‘Ogbodo enyi’ is a composite mask derived from different animals: the protruding tusks of an elephant are combined with the open mouth of a hippopotamus and parts of a wart hog. The projection on the forehead represents the ‘trunk of the elephant’. ‘Ogbodo enyi’ is regarded as a ‘friend of the village’ and a good-natured masked being that protects the community. The present elephant mask of the Ibo-Izzi is an unusually old specimen: carved in light-coloured, heavy wood and originally dyed black and white. The original, soft ring made of woven plant fibres (used as padding on the dancer’s head) still exists for this mask. This is rare! This piece shows very good, partly shiny patina, as well as age damage as a result of protracted use: Colour scuffed, edges and points chipped, some pieces worn or broken off as a result of usage, old original repairs of tears by means of inserted metal braces etc. Overall: a 'classic' elephant mask of the Ibo-Izzi, of impressive age! First third of the 20th century; H: 32 cm, L: 72 cm, W: 28 cm. (ME)

Provenance: Viennese private collection.

Additional photo:
Photo from ‘IGBO ARTS’ by Herbert M. Cole & Chike C. Aniakor