Mama Mangam Bush Cow Headcrest Nigeria

This stunning piece of art showcases the expertise and craftsmanship of the Mama people from the Benue River Valley in northern Nigeria. It provides insight into the lesser-known cultural practices of the peoples who inhabit the southern Jos plateau, along the northernmost part of the Middle Benue Valley Region, where the Niger and Benue Rivers meet. 

Mama Mangam Bush Cow Headcrest Nigeria is known for producing intricate Mangam head crests, featuring a bush cow design with an open extended mouth and sculpted horns. These horns are joined at the top, forming a full circle and flanked by a median incised ridge. During ceremonies the upper surface of the horns was often rubbed with powered red ochre, which this mask demonstrates clearly. The mask also features a concave dome for the head of the wearer, and when worn the full costume hides the wearer’s body in  a dress of layered palm leaves, the upper-layer of which was attached directly to the holes along the mask's lower rim.

Stand is not included.

Height: 18.0
Width: 11.0
Depth: 5.0

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