Item Description: A carved, white-faced helmet mask with black hair and blue trim.

Cultural Profile: The traditional home of the Igbo is in Southeast Nigeria. Many different masks are used in their various rituals from birth to death. This is an example of a maiden spirit mask used in the annual celebration of local deceased young married women. Although the ritual performance is for women, it is only the males, who after having reached a certain age/grade level, can participate in the dance.