Ibibio Idiok OLD Tribal Antique Mask Nigeria Africa IRON Teeth - Custom Stand - SUPERB Expression Start Price USD 1,245.00 Current Price USD 1,245.00 Time Left - Bid Count 0 Buy It Now Price - Reserve Price - Start Time Monday, October 06, 2008 End Time Wednesday, November 05, 2008 Location Santa Fe, NM See more about 'Ibibio Idiok OLD Tribal Antique Mask Nigeria Africa' Description   Fine Old Ibibio Idiok Spirit Mask w/ StandAntique African Masque Tribal Sculpture Nigeria     A Fine Old Ibibio Idiok Spirit Mask w/ Iron Teeth, Tribal Use on Custom StandAntique African Art - Tribal Sculpture - Cross River, Niger Delta Nigeria Origin: Ibibio peoples of the Delta and the Cross River region of Nigeria, West AfricaMaterial: Wood, iron teeth, pigmentsPeriod: Early 20th centuryDimensions: 16" total height, mask is 10 x 6 x 4 inchesWeight: 7 ounces or 1.75 pounds with custom wood standCondition: Exceptional - no damage, exquisite signs of age and wear, surface condition reveals wear with burnished skin oil patina along all highpoints indicative of extensive tribal use Click on the photos below to fully appreciate this remarkable old spirit! And be sure to see the fascinating AFRICAN MASKS in our eBay store! Or explore our stunning AFRICAN SCULPTURES! Click Images to Enlarge Ibibio Idiok MasksThe somewhat emaciated face with intentionally misaligned eyes and nostrils are typical of the Ibibio Idiok mask. Many believe that the portrayal of ill-health in these hell-dwelling spirits was directly related to the large outbreak of syphilis in the region, an event which undoubtedly had numerous repercussions among the various peoples of that area. Ibibio Tribal History"The Ibibio and the Anang people number around 2,000,000 and live in an area between the Delta and the Cross River. Their main resource is farming maize and iguame. They live in villages led by a chief elected from the most honorable heads of the important families and Ibibio and Anang social life is regulated by three secret societies which incorporate masks into their annual ceremonies. The most important of these societies is the Ekpo, which is responsible for the cult of the ancestors, who are in turn responsible for the welfare of the tribe. In Ibibio ceremonies, two main types of mask appear. The first, known as Mfon, has an articulated jaw and represents a 'beautiful' spirit who has attained eternal bliss. The second mask, called Idiok, is thought to represent a hell-dwelling spirit and is carved with a typical emaciated face, possibly alluding to ill-health.", according to Bacquart. Cat. # am2 ************************************************************************************ THANK YOU FOR SHOPPING SANTA FE AFRICAN ART !!! We strive to earn your ***** FIVE STAR ***** rating in all 4 categories!If you are not 5 star satisfied, please contact us immediately!Your Satisfaction is Unconditionally Guaranteed ! ************************************************************************************ Multiple purchases = SUBSTANTIAL savings on your shipping costs! Never a charge for handling! Important Note: UPS and USPS International request a daytime phone number for delivery, PLEASE be sure to include this information with your payment to ensure expedited service. Insured UPS Ground shipping within the continental United States is FREE with this purchase! USPS International Priority Mail rates were reduced by an equal amount in fairness to our valued international clients. Optional USPS insurance is highly recommended! Please email us with your Zip or Postal Code for combined or alternate shipping rates PRIOR to making your payment. We Offer a Variety of Payment Methods to Meet YOUR Needs ! PayPal and all major credit cards are gladly accepted. Payment is expected within 7 days of your purchase. In consideration of discounts given, we respectfully request immediate payment on all Best Offers unless arrangements are made prior to acceptance. Please contact us directly if other payment arrangements are necessary - we're always happy to help! Your Satisfaction is 100% Guaranteed !!! Please contact us immediately if ~ for any reason ~ you are not pleased with your selection. We will gladly refund the purchase price of any item returned in its original condition within 14 days of dated delivery. Our commitment to 5 Star customer service and satisfaction ensures that YOUR satisfaction is Unconditionally Guaranteed ~ NO questions asked! Affordable Auction Management and Image Hosting Solutions @ inkFrog view my other auctions below:   visit my entire auction showcase Place a Bid!