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Igbo

Water Spirit Mask (Okoroshi Oma)

Igbo, Mid-20th century

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Igbo

Water Spirit Mask (Okoroshi Oma)

Igbo, Mid-20th century

Physical Qualities Wood, kaolin, paint, 10 1/4 x 4 3/4 in. (26 x 12.1 cm.)
Credit Line Gift of Robert and Emily Miller Rody, Baltimore
Object Number 1971.74
The refined, delicate features of this mask—elegant coiffure, straight nose, evenly set eyes and proudly displayed teeth—distinguish it as a female mask, descended from benign, white cumulous clouds. Igbo classify okoroshi water spirit masks according to two opposing realms: white “beauty” masks (oma) which embody femininity, light, beauty, purity, civilization, order, clarity, calm and peace; and black, or dark “beast” masks (ojo) which personify masculinity, ugliness, dirt, wilderness, obscurity, mystery, chaos, conflict and danger. Aggressive dark masks warn community members of behavior that will not be tolerated, whereas white masks lead by example. A white costume, along with valuable accessories like melodious bells, a fly-whisk and parasol would have reinforced the superlative nature of this elegant mask.
"Meditations on African Art: Color," April 18, 2007-August 19, 2007, BMA, Karen Milbourne.

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