The Ekoi people, also known as the Ejagham, inhabit the Cross River region along the border between southeastern Nigeria and Cameroon. They are renowned for their distinctive ritual art, particularly skin-covered headdresses and masks used in various ceremonies.  
Traditionally, the Ekoi crafted wooden headdresses and masks, which they covered with animal skin commonly antelope to achieve a lifelike appearance. The process involved soaking fresh antelope skin, wrapping it around the carved wooden form, and allowing it to dry so that it adhered securely. These skin-covered pieces were often adorned with pigments, real human hair, and other materials to enhance their realism and symbolic significance. Such artifacts were integral to dances and rituals performed by men’s associations during significant events like funerals and initiations.
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The Ekoi people, also known as the Ejagham, inhabit the Cross River region along the border between southeastern Nigeria and Cameroon. They are renowned for their distinctive ritual art, particularly skin-covered headdresses and masks used in various ceremonies.  
Traditionally, the Ekoi crafted wooden headdresses and masks, which they covered with animal skin commonly antelope to achieve a lifelike appearance. The process involved soaking fresh antelope skin, wrapping it around the carved wooden form, and allowing it to dry so that it adhered securely. These skin-covered pieces were often adorned with pigments, real human hair, and other materials to enhance their realism and symbolic significance. Such artifacts were integral to dances and rituals performed by men’s associations during significant events like funerals and initiations.
Source: https://umma.umich.edu/objects/mask-1971-1-187/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
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