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

Overview

Provenance

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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