241010 - Old African mask from Eket - Nigeria.

Old African mask from Eket, Nigeria. Hand carved from a single piece of wood, with color pigments. Size: 26 cm high x 30 cm wide.
Nigerian Eket masks are iconic elements of the art and culture of the Eket people, a community in southeastern Nigeria. These masks have deep cultural and spiritual significance in the ceremonial and ritual practices of Eket society. Eket masks are often characterized by stylized features, bright colors, and expressive shapes. They can represent ancestral spirits, deities, mythical characters, or important social figures. Masks are worn during various cultural events, such as passing ceremonies, festivals, and healing rituals. These masks play a crucial role in communication between people and spirits. They are used to request blessings, guide the community, and strengthen connections with the spiritual world. Masked performances are also a way to preserve traditions and pass on cultural teachings to future generations.As works of art, Eket masks are admired for their unique aesthetic and cultural relevance. They reflect the identity, beliefs and history of the Eket people, while being prized by art lovers and researchers interested in traditional African art.