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Key Moments in Life: Leadership 7 |
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The masks were intended to provide anonymity to the wearer, so that the family of a criminal who had been punished could not seek vengeance, but perhaps more importantly to communicate the idea that authority was vested in a corporate body rather than in an individual. The Ibibio Ekpo society mask shown here displays features that are fearful to the Ibibio - dark coloring, large coarse eyes, mouth and nose, and twisted features that are the result of a disease called Yaws. The mask was intended to inspire fear, awe, and obedience in those who saw it. |
Ibibio people, Nigeria |
