WURKUN MINIATURE MASK

Rare Wurkun miniature dance shoulder or yoke mask from Nigeria.

This fascinating item was collected as part of a pair in the Benue State area of Nigeria and bears all the hallmarks of traditional Wurkun shoulder masks, just in miniature.

The Wurkun like the Mumuye, the Chamba and the Jukun live along the Benue River in eastern Nigeria. The vertical or shoulder mask is generally worn during dance ceremonies and healing practices.

There are records of miniature West African sculpture though not generally found in Wurkun figures. 

Condition: Excellent, no wood loss, lovely patina. This mask is mounted.