Magbo helmet mask for Oro association

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The Oro association takes charge of enforcing fines, handing out penalties, and meting out punishments. During annual festivals, members of the Oro wear masks like these to showcase their skills. Maskers play a significant role in funeral rites for everyone, regardless of social status. The numerous figures on top of the mask, including a prisoner, a preacher, a musician, and a soldier, indicate that Oro activities bring the entire community together. This carving features several elements brought back by former slaves from Brazil, such as the double scroll form just above the main face, the floral cluster in back, and what appears to be a garland of leaves wrapped around the main head. These Brazilian influences became widespread in architecture and other art forms after being introduced in the second half of the 19th century. The Indianapolis Museum of Art has digitally scanned this object.