Nsua-ndua helmet mask

19th–mid-20th century

On view at The Met Fifth Avenue in Gallery 344

The mythic nsua-ndua bird is sacred to the Mambila people. Identified by some as a crow, it is linked to the Sùàgà association, whose primary social function is the resolution of disputes through spiritually sanctioned oath-taking. Masquerade performances are held to bolster Sùàgà’s role as a successful mediator. The dramatically projecting ears and eyes of this soft wood helmet mask suggest an alert watchfulness, while its gaping beak portends approaching danger. Such masks appeared at harvest and planting festivals as well as during annual initiation rites. Given that active Sùàgà devotional objects were repainted annually, it is likely that this mask had not been danced for some time prior to its collection.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

Title: Nsua-ndua helmet mask
Artist: Mambila artist
Date: 19th–mid-20th century
Geography: Cameroon or Nigeria, Donga River region
Culture: Mambila peoples
Medium: Wood
Dimensions: H. 17 × W. 9 1/4 × D. 21 1/2 in. (43.2 × 23.5 × 54.6 cm)
Classification: Wood-Sculpture
Credit Line: The Michael C. Rockefeller Memorial Collection, Purchase, Nelson A. Rockefeller Gift, 1968
Object Number: 1978.412.583
Curatorial Department: The Michael C. Rockefeller Wing

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