An ancient, large Akirang mask used by the Sha society for initiations. The mask's grainy surface bears witness to the ancient inlaying of red abrus seeds that originally covered its entire face. For a comparable mask with similar features, see The Power of Form. African Art from the Horstmann Collection, Bassani, Bockemühl and McNaugthon, 2002, p.102 Kulere (or Kaleri), Nigeria Height: 55cm Wood, wax-coated, visible cracks, old dry and weathered patina. Provenance: Hélène Leloup Collection, Paris Passed on by descent