The ideal beauty of abogho mmuo has both physical and moral dimensions. The light complexion of these pretty maiden masks is likened to the glowing purity of white chalk and suggests their fine moral fiber. Such masks, with their fanciful crested hairstyles— sometimes incorporating such powerful and seemingly unlikely motifs as leopards—are spectacular in performance as they process in a line with lithe and theatrical movements. The spirals, crosses and other patterns that adorn the cheeks and temples of these maiden masks are the uli patterns used by Igbo women to adorn their homes and bodies. Maiden spirits such as these three are conceptually juxtaposed with Mgbedike (“Time of the Brave”), an Igbo masked spirit who is considered dark, or black, and powerful. When viewed in combination, such masks represent the spectrum of Igbo expressive systems and spiritual power.