24x35 inches Acrylic paint on canvas Unique piece signed by the artist
This NFT (Certificate of Authenticity) acts as provenance for the physical piece pictured. Please contact the artist directly to arrange for delivery if purchased on primary. Price does not include shipping and handling costs.
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ÀLÁBÀLÚ is a masquerade from Ẹ̀fọ̀n-Aláayè in Èkìtì state, Nigeria. It's not your typical kind of masquerade, it's a very unique masquerade with a unique style. The head is shaped like a cats, the cloak it wears is accessorized with cowries, sea shells, and some other traditional ornaments.
After the celebration, the outfit is spread under the sun for a while and kept for another three years. They do not wash it and that makes it stink. It also carries a staff that looks like a spare. It throws it at people just for fun, but they say it's mostly when he is angry/frustrated.
It comes out every three years and he is celebrated by indigenes and visitors. ÀLÁBÀLÚ is passed down from generation to generation. There's a particular song they sing for him to fuel his pride. It's a fun masquerade to watch.
