A fragmentary Igbo ‘Agbogho mmuo’ maiden mask, Nigeria, oblong face with smiling mouth, pinched nose and small sultry eyes with arched eyebrows, the coiffure high, elaborate and composed of several tubular items to give it dimension. signs of age and use with minor cracks. Certificate of origin and provenance. 'Maiden masks, representations of adolescent females, impersonate Igbo ideals of youthful feminine beauty. In their original context, they were danced by male performers during festivals honoring important patron deities, as well as for entertainment. During performances, they were complemented by vibrantly colored suits and accompanied by a multi-instrumental orchestra. Such dynamic display strongly contrasts with their static presentation in Western collections.' Source: The Met Museum, NY.