Helmet Mask (Epa or Elefon)

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Yoruba Epa (Jagunjagun) Helmet Mask made of bronze with lower Janus-faced section that fits over the dancer’s head and is surmounted by a platform bearing a number of small figures and a large, bearded horseman. Epa masks have their origins in the seventeen kingdoms of the Ekiti region, situated in the northeastern part of Yoruba territory of Nigeria. Until the early 19th century, Ekiti was considered part of the Benin empire, resulting in a diverse population with unique traditions. These traditions, including the use of Epa masks, have spread to neighboring regions like Iyagba, Igbomina, Oshun, Owo, and Ijesha. The warrior figures often depicted on Epa masks symbolize individuals who demonstrated courage and skill during this turbulent period of history.

Source: Omorogbe, Aigbe. Epa Helmet, Bronze-cast(lost-wax), Private collection, Benin city