Ogoni Helmet Mask Elu weapons and the god Hylates

and the god Hylates

spider or crab divination (ngam)

offering a vivid glimpse into the rituals

and a raised neck

the Maize God

Ogoni Helmet Mask Elu weapons and the god HylatesOgoni People, 20th Century, Nigeria, West Africa An impressive Elu helmet spirit mask of the Ogoni people, carved from a single piece of wood with remarkable sculptural vitality. The mask features a hinged lower jaw, attached to the upper by textile straps on each side, allowing the mouth to open and close with a distinctive clicking sound during dance performances. The jaws teeth are individually carved wooden pegs inserted into the lower section,