The ‘mmwo spirit’ society is an ancient, closed society that cherishes the traditions of the Igbo and is deeply involved in rites of passage.

Mmwo masks painted with white kaolin and decorated with elaborate hairstyles symbolize feminine beauty and youth. The whiteness of the faces reflects the traditional ritual markings on the body and skin of Igbo women. The elaborate hairstyles of the masks mirror the authentic styles worn by girls when they emerged from seclusion in preparation for marriage.