Lot A89 - Ejagham Crest / Head

Ejagham Crest / Head

Ejagham (Ekoi) people, Nigeria / Cameroon border region

Height: 33 cm

Carved wooden crest head with expressive facial features, including a prominent nose, large ears and an open mouth revealing inserted teeth. The narrow, slit-like eyes are accentuated with light pigment. The surface shows a deep, dark brown patina.

The head is covered with animal skin on the reverse, with visible hair remnants and stitched seams—characteristic of Ejagham/Ekoi crest masks traditionally worn atop the head. A woven fiber ring at the base served for attachment to the costume.

Fine aged surface with wear consistent with ceremonial use.
Early to mid 20th century.