EKOI EJAGHAM CREST MASK

Ekoi crest masks are headdresses which are attached to basketry caps worn on the top of the head. These crest masks are carved from a single block of wood and covered with untanned antelope skin that had been soaked in water for several days. The skin is then stretched and pinned in place with pegs until it dries and stiffens. The headdress is then adorned with hair and braided fibers.

Ejagham people occupy the tropical rainforest region of the South-south geopolitical zone in Nigeria and the Southwestern part of Cameroon. Though politically decentralized, the clans spread across different villages are united under the royal authority of Ntoon (the Chief Priest). The Ntoon oversees ritual rites on behalf of the people while political authority is considered as the preserve of elders within each community.

The origin of the headdress is traced to Ngbe; an all-male cult society that had an overwhelming effect on the cultural practices of both male and female age-grade associations of the Ekoi people. Ngbe, meaning leopard, accounts for the zoomorphic features of the mask. Some Ekoi headdresses come with elaborate coiffures and curved horns. The mask is worn in celebration of ancestors during funerals and ceremonies. The wearer is usually costumed in trellis of cords and raffia.

Condition

 Natural leather deterioration. Separation of the leather in some areas. Missing hair attachments.