About
The Cross River region of Nigeria has a tight cluster of many ethnic groups such as the Igbo, Idoma, Boki, and Ejagham, among others. Though each culture is distinct, crossover exists in language, culture, and artistic style. Moreover, artists were often itinerant, traveling from town to town to fulfill commissions. So, while we know that this mask is from the Cross River region, the specific culture that commissioned the work is unknown, due in part to the blending of traditions and the incomplete record keeping of early explorers and collectors. Similar examples are covered in animal hide and were used for entertainment and funerals by elite male societies. Though it is not known for whom this mask was made and under what context it was performed, the mask would have been attached to a woven basketry cap that would sit on top of the performer’s head. His face would likely have been covered, and the face of the mask, with its long neck and crest hairstyle, would have made the performer a towering presence above the spectators.