Mgbedike – “The time of the brave”

Mgbedike are a class of large Igbo masks characterized by large teeth, horns, and an “openwork superstructure featuring carved animals and human beings” (Igbo Arts, p.132).

Mgbedike literally translates to “the time of the brave”.

Mgbedlike masker : Igbo Arts p.130 (1930s)

The spirit “heads” personifying mystery, aggression, bravado, and fearlessness were typically represented by an age class (30 to 50yrs) – men taking high titles, or developing reputations as diviners, hunters, or warriors. On the mask this is represented by the ‘ichi’ scarification on the forehead. The scarification indicated that the wearer had passed through initial initiation into specific higher levels of society.

Material Culture :

Ancient, Ethnographic & Tribal Arts 2/23/20

The upper level of the Allan Stone Mgbedike (Material Culture) shows two equestrians riding leopards/horses, which are themselves astride double headed leopards. The mid-tier shows six monkey figures with cups, which probably signify the unpredictable nature of the Mgbedike spirit. The massive horns, teeth, and ichi markings are all characteristic of the Mgbedike class. The Allan Stone mask bears a remarkable similarity to the one shown in Igbo Arts (above).

Material Culture : Allan Stone Mgbedike

For reference the two Mgbedike masks shown below were both donated to the Yale University Art collection by Charles Benenson.

Mgbedike mask : Yale University Art Gallery (photo credit), see Igbo Arts p.132

Mgbedike mask : Yale University Art Gallery (photo credit)