Igri or okonkpo face mask

Late 19th–early 20th century
On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 343
This delicate, refined visage incarnates a state of madness. Wearing it is believed to provoke strange or erratic movements and behaviors. It is known as Igri to local secret society initiates; non-initiates refer to it as okonkpo given its resemblance to a large serving tray of the same name. The mask’s defining features are the tears that extend from the eyes as diagonal stripes. Its top edge would have been adorned with bundles of dyed raffia or other plant fibers. Following the harvest, Igri helped redirect the creative energies of Afikpo communities from farming.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • Title: Igri or okonkpo face mask
  • Artist: Afikpo-Igbo artist
  • Date: Late 19th–early 20th century
  • Geography: Nigeria, Cross River region
  • Culture: Afikpo peoples
  • Medium: Wood, paint
  • Dimensions: H. 13 in. x W. 4 in. x D. 1 1/2 in.
  • Classification: Wood-Costumes
  • Credit Line: Gift of Carol B. Kenney, in memory of Jerome P. Kenney, 2025
  • Object Number: 2025.97.9
  • Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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