Ekoi Ejagham Leather Wrapped Headpiece Nigeria

Leather-covered head with basketry base from the Eket or Ejagham people living in Cross River area of Cameroon and Nigeria. The head displays hanging braided hair, and the face is highlighted with white elements in the eyelids and jagged teeth. This is a classic well-used mask that would be of good addition to any collection. Headcrest masks from the Boki people, neighbors of the Ejagham, present many similarities with these Ekoi - Ejagham headpieces.

The Ejagham, also known as Ekoi, in Nigeria, is associated with the Ngbe, a secretive men's society characterized by distinctive head crests worn by its members, particularly those belonging to the Leopard Society. Living in proximity to the Cross River, these groups share language and organizational structures governed by local elders, yet rely on men's secret societies like Ngbe for community regulation, instruction, and initiation. Originally a warrior's society, Ngbe members now engage in social control and political activities. These individuals use ritual equipment, including large skin-covered masks worn over body costumes, housed in chapter lodges. The Ngbe society celebrates life events like funerals and employs these ceremonial items for initiation rites. The head crests, like the Ngbe's, are worn atop a basketry cap, signifying a rich cultural heritage and a blend of social and ceremonial significance within the Ejagham community.

122772