Lot: 236

96th Auction

Water spirit mask

Nigeria, Urhobo

Provenance Size Starting price / estimated price
Amadou Roufaye, Niamey, Niger
Massimo Martini, Montecatini Terme, Italy (acquired around 1995)
Jan Kusters, Waalre, The Netherlands
H: 13.8 inch This object is not available anymore.

wood, pigments, base

Urhobo masks are worn at "oworhu" festivals in honour of the water spirits "edjo re ame" ("edjorame"), who according to Urhobo belief are responsible for the well-being of the community.

The Urhobo have a deep-rooted belief in spiritual forces from the waters and forests that surround them.


Lebas, Alain (ed.), Arts of Nigeria in French Private Collections, Milan 2012, ill. 36