Hippo Mask at The British Museum, London

myminifactory

Among the Kalabari Ijo people, who inhabit the delta region of the lower Niger River in Nigeria, significant rituals are performed to honor and appease water spirits that were believed responsible for guaranteeing the Ijo's food supply and fertility. This wooden mask represents one such water spirit, otobo (hippopotamus), which was worn on top of the head and adorned with feathers and cloth when donned. African masks not only served entertainment and ceremonial purposes but also enabled humans to interact with the powers of the wild bush and swamps by bringing them into the civilized areas of town and village. Characters commonly embodied in such powerful masquerades include wild beasts, spirits, foreigners, witches, or the dead. This object is part of "Scan The World", a non-profit initiative introduced by MyMiniFactory that aims to create a digital archive of fully 3D printable sculptures, artworks, and landmarks from around the world for public access. Scan The World is an open-source community effort, and if you have interesting items nearby and would like to contribute, email stw@myminifactory.com to learn how you can help.