Epa Mask
possibly Areogun of Osi; or possibly School of Areogun of Osi
1 of 3
Object Label
Epa masks are used in masking festivals commemorating the deeds of heroic ancestral warriors, whose stylized faces are represented at the bottom of this mask. These masquerades, which feature ritualized dances, are celebratory reenactments of ancient battles, part real and part mythical. The flanked figure on horseback is a potent reminder of the history of cavalry warfare on the northern edges of the Yoruba realms.
Caption
possibly Areogun of Osi (ca. 1880–1954); or possibly School of Areogun of Osi (ca. 1880–1954). Epa Mask, late 19th or early 20th century. Wood, 39 1/4 x 15 x 18 in. (99.7 x 38.1 x 45.7 cm). Brooklyn Museum, Gift of David R. Markin, 70.107.13. (Photo: Brooklyn Museum)
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Gallery
Not on view
Collection
Title
Epa Mask
Date
late 19th or early 20th century
Geography
Place made: Osi-Ilorin, Kwara State, Nigeria
Medium
Wood
Classification
Dimensions
39 1/4 x 15 x 18 in. (99.7 x 38.1 x 45.7 cm)
Credit Line
Gift of David R. Markin
Accession Number
70.107.13
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