A Superb Cross River Headdress, Nigeria and Cameroon

rising from a ring of plated fibers covered with cloth, the anthropo-zoomorphic head with elongated open crocodile snout showing teeth made of wood, the crested forehead bisecting the recessed almond shaped eyes, with two elaborate spirals emerging from the top and framing the head; the whole covered with the skin of a waterbuck antelope (kobus ellipsiprymnus); exceptionally fine varied medium and dark brown patina with residue. 

Christian Fenzl, Krems
Reynold C. Kerr, New York

excellent condition overall; exceptionally fine varied medium and dark brown patina with residue.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

McClusky (1984: 104) notes on a closely related mask form the Katherine White Collection: "This mask form is thought to combine a crocodile face with the elaborate spiral coiffure of a young woman. They unite on a basketry base to provide an image of the Cross River belief in transformation and beauty/beast duality. Joining a crocodile face to a female hairstyle may derive form the Cross River concept of animal 'familiars.' Persons with extraordinary abilities or unusual inclinations could attribute their actions to the persuading force of an animal who sought them out. Certain animals could have a helpful and enhancing nature, but others could be dangerous and destructive. Crocodiles are classified as the latter type and may serve as agents of witchcraft. Whether this mask related to a female anti-witchcraft association or a royal protection cult is not known."

For another example of this rare iconography see Kerchache, Paudrat, Stéphan (1993: 415, fig. 538).