Yoruba Helmet Mask Depicting Eshu

Eshu keeps the crossroads. He carries messages between people and the orisha, and he is not above a prank along the way.

This carved wood helmet mask from the Yoruba of Nigeria, made in the 20th century, depicts him. The face is bold: large rounded eyes, a short broad nose, an open mouth showing a row of teeth. Three crests rise from the crown, the outer two sweeping out and down like long ribbed horns. The head sits on a domed base carved with broad faceted adze marks.

Sixteen inches high, dark and glossy, with traces of red and ochre pigment. Hang it facing the door. Let it vet your guests.