2014.4.2.McD Headcrest

This dramatic headcrest features lifelike facial features that the sculptor achieved by stretching damp antelope skin tightly over carved contours. Painting the eyebrows and adding pupils and teeth also adds to the illusion of naturalism. The elaborate hairstyle, composed of separately carved spirals and small pegs, is based on what worn by young women at a ceremony celebrating their entry into womanhood. The "beautiful maiden" headcrest was worn atop a costumed male dancer's head in the entertaining ikam masquerade.

Asikpo Edet Okun, a renowned Efut sculptor, carved for clients throughout the entire Cross River region in southern Nigeria. His work was so much in demand that he could charge a drum of palm oil for a mask.

Roslyn A. Walker, Label text, Arts of Africa, 2015.

By 1970s: Merton D. Simpson, New York

n.d.: Allan Stone, New York, acquired from above

2014: Dallas Museum of Art, purchased at Sotheby's Auction, November 15, 2013; Lot 80 [1]

The main source for this provenance is the Acquisition Proposal in the Collections Records object file (2014.4.2.McD). Exceptions and other supporting documentation are noted.

[1] See the copy of the invoice dated November 15, 2013 in the Collections Records object file. 

[2] Works of art given or purchased by The Eugene and Margaret McDermott Art Fund, Inc., a non-profit organization, are placed in the custody of the DMA for the purpose of public display on the premises of the Museum or in other recognized are galleries or museums. The title to all works of art purchased (or otherwise acquired) by the McDermott Art Fund remains with the Fund.

Apply to objects where number equals 2014.4.2.McD