Ekpo Society Mask (Idiok Ekpo)

Artist Artist Unknown

Datelate 19th–early 20th century

MediumWood, paint, and kaolin

Dimensions10 1/2 x 6 3/8 x 4 1/4 in. (26.7 x 16.2 x 10.8 cm)

ClassificationsSculpture

Credit LineGift of Fred Jamner

Object numberGL.75.38.1

On View

Not on view

Label TextAccording to Ibibio belief, when a person dies the soul goes either to the land of the spirits to await reincarnation or it is transformed into an evil ghost. These unhappy spirits who have died socially unacceptable deaths appear as ugly ghost masks (Idiok Ekpo). In black raffia costumes and carrying weapons, they dance in a wild and unrestrained manner. As seen here, these frightening masks often feature large mouths with prominent, menacing teeth.Exhibition HistoryAlbany, GA: Albany Museum of Art, “Echoes of the Past,” September 4, 2025-January 3, 2026. Object Rights Statement

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