A very ancient Oniedjo dance mask of a rare typology, adorned with a figure carved at the top of the back of the headdress and looking away from the mask, a probable protective attribute, as well as two reptiles in relief on the sides and ornaments on either side of the mouth. The contrasting polychromy (red, white and black) accentuates the hypnotic presence of its sculpted, pearl-shaped eyes. Urhobo, Nigeria Wood, pigments, visible accidents and old breaks, very beautiful, thick sacrificial and wear patina. Height: 50cm Provenance: Yves and Ewa Develon Collection Yves and Ewa Develon Collection, Paris Collection Hélène Leloup, Paris, acquired 1985 Passed on by descent Published by Arts d'Afrique noire, n°58