Western Africa, Southeastern Nigeria / Cameroon, Ekoi (Ejagham) culture, ca. early to mid-20th century CE. An ancestral figural crest made from wood, woven rattan, antelope leather, and resin that once held hair or fur in place. The wooden form is carved with a shallow opening on the base, with a rattan rim surrounding and forming a base. The leather is wrapped and dried in place – the smooth surface is from rubbing oil rubbing into the hide. Resin or pitch is added to the head and some remains of wispy hair is stuck to the surface. This crest figure may have rested atop the head of an initiated member during the Ekpo Society ceremonies and funerals. Society members act as messengers to the ancestors and perform dances wearing costumes with these crests attached on top.