Ibibio Round Eket Mask Nigeria

This mask comes from the southern Ibibio people known as Eket. However such masks have also been found among the Oron and Okobo Ibibio as well. Among the Eket the mask is identified with the female creation divinity called Eka Abassi. They are referred to as sun or moon masks. This mask reflects the mixed traditions that exist along the Lower Niger and Cross Rivers and the great Niger River delta as it flows into the Atlantic. A number of groups in this region share mask styles often drawing upon one another for imagery and perhaps even carvers who have some degree of mobility.

The Ibibio live along the Niger River close to it's delta. Round masks or masks composed of a number of panels were used during celebrations for the yam planting and harvesting. The art of the Ibibio share with the Eket and southern Igbo traditions of style and in some instances use of masks and figures.