Head Crest (Ngamdak)

20th century

Not on view

A crest known as Ngamdak (meaning "man with bowed legs") is worn at the top of a dancer's head performing during biannual celebrations related to the agricultural cycle among the Jaba peoples of Central Nigeria. It appears in pair with the Nyamfaik crest (meaning "guardian of Faik village"; see 1978.558.2). It is distinctive for the lightness of its geometric, openwork design, and the ingenious combination of material, including wood, black and white pigment, and bright red abrus seeds. In performance, the dyed fiber tassels attached at each extremity must have added to the work’s dynamism. The Jaba’s neighbors, the Koro, are known as the artists responsible for the creation of such crests.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

Title: Head Crest (Ngamdak)
Date: 20th century
Geography: Nigeria, Benue River Valley region
Culture: Jaba or Koro peoples
Medium: Wood, pigment, abrus seeds, fiber
Dimensions: H. 16 x W. 10 1/2 in. (40.6 x 26.7 cm)
Classification: Wood-Costumes
Credit Line: Gift of Eli Ballan, 1978
Object Number: 1978.558.1
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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