About this artwork
This strikingly abstract mask was once covered with potent red abrus seeds that were held in place by a resin paste. It would have been used in initiation rituals for one of six age-grade associations. Among the Sha people, a mask like this one represents a male spirit called Akirang who had a female counterpart named Aja. The Kulere equivalent of Akirang was Asho, a spirit associated with human and agricultural fertility.
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Status
- On View, Gallery 137
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Department
- Arts of Africa
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Culture
- Sha
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Title
- Mask
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Place
- Nigeria (Object made in)
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Date
- 1867–1900
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Medium
- Wood and rubber
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Dimensions
- H.: 64.8 cm (25 1/2 in.)
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Credit Line
- Gift of Richard Faletti, the Faletti Family Collection
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Reference Number
- 2000.319
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IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/155960/manifest.json
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.