Licensing Resources
Magbo helmet mask for Oro association
late 19th century - early 20th century
1989.754
On display in H209
Artwork Details
28-3/4 x 13-3/4 x 18-1/2 in.
Accession NumberGift of Mr. and Mrs. Harrison Eiteljorg
CopyrightPurchased by Harrison Eiteljorg [1903-1997], Indianapolis, in 1976 in New York; given to the Indianapolis Museum of Art in 1989 (1989.754).
The Oro association is responsible for enforcing fines and penalties and carrying out punishments. The Oro uses masks of this type during annual festivals. Maskers are also involved in burial procedures for everyone, no matter the status of the deceased. The many figures on top of the mask, including a prisoner, a preacher, a musician and a soldier indicate that Oro activities involve the whole community
This carving includes several elements that were brought back to the area by former slaves from Brazil. These include the double scroll form just above the main face, the floral cluster in back, and what appears to be a garland of leaves placed around the main head. These Brazilian elements became common in architecture and other art forms after being introduced in the second half of the 19th century.
Exhibition Name
Venue
Dates
Master Hand: Individuality and Creativity Among Yoruba Sculptures
Metropolitan Museum of Art
September 11, 1997 - August 1, 1998
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