Kaduna Protector

Wide eyes are ever vigilant, always alert. By Abdul Aziz Mohamadu, this mask represents a protective spirit. 'It is used by the Kaduna people in Nigeria, who hang the mask in their room,' he says. 'Anytime the man has to leave his wife alone at home, they believe that the spirit of protection invoked by this mask will protect her while he is away.' He names the piece Ginbiya, a Hausa word which means 'protect my wife.'