Design concept and characterization in select Igbo masquerades

Abstract

The study of the concepts and motifs in Igbo masquerade design requires an adequate knowledge of the traditional society from and for which the masquerades are created. This knowledge entails an understanding of the worldview of the society that gave it birth. In other words, the Igbo masquerade phenomenon is better understood through an analysis of the concept of mmonwu in Igbo cosmology both as spirit manifests and a performance art. The problem of this study therefore is to interrogate the design concepts and motifs in select Igbo masquerades through which they are characterized and identified. Through an analysis of the design concepts and motifs in Anuka, Agboghommuo, Ajikwu and Ijele masquerades respectively, the study finds that Igbo masquerades are characterized and identified  through the nature of their designs and the philosophy through which they are conceptualized. It thus submits that the Igbo masquerade phenomenon is not fortuitous rather it is an art that encapsulates the Igbo philosophy and worldview. The study therefore recommends the study and analysis of Igbo masquerade designs and motifs as a means of deepening the understanding of the art which  understanding will further position the art in global performance space.