Queen Mother Pendant Mask (Nigeria)

Before Research:

This piece provides a striking first impression with symmetrical features and an interesting mixture of textures. There are delicate veins running through the piece because of the material used, ivory, and there is added texture for the hair and the designs circling the head, giving a sense of balance and unity. The face has an air of strength and power, the eyes are heavy and open and even though the face is oval and smooth the gaze is strong along with the nose and mouth. 

After Research:

This piece is an early 16th century pendant mask carved from ivory representing Iyoba Idia, mother of Oba Esigie, and it would have been worn on ceremonial occasions as well as a pendant on a belt as a memorial to Iyoba Idia after her death. It is one part of a pair of nearly identical works. Iron inlays for the pupil and rims of the eyes intensify the gaze of the piece. The top of the pendant is decorated with bearded heads of the Portuguese which is a symbol of the good trade and alliance with the Portuguese. There are mudfish symbols are alternating with the Portuguese faces which is a primary symbol of Benin kingship and they represent an ability to survive in water and on land.

Sources:

Clarke, Christa. "Queen Mother Pendant Mask (Iyoba) (Edo Peoples)." Khan Academy. Last modified 

2016. https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/art-africa/west-africa/nigeria/a/ 

queen-mother-pendant-mask-iyoba-edo-peoples. 

"Queen Mother Pendant Mask: Iyoba." The Met. https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/318622.