Tribal Art

Gelede mask (N° 23374)

Ample African mask wearing a cap, it displays large protruding eyes, a particularity of the Yoruba style. The surface is perforated with crosses coated in a burgundy red hue. Desication cracks. Chipped polychrome patina.
The Gelede country in Nigeria pays tribute to mothers, especially the oldest among them, whose powers are said to be comparable to those of the Yoruba gods, or orisa, and the ancestors, osi< /i> and which can be used for the benefit but also for the misfortune of society. In the latter case these women are named aje. Masked ceremonies, through performances using masks, costumes and dances, are meant to urge mothers to use their extraordinary qualities for peacemaking and constructive purposes, for the good of society. During rigorously organized ceremonies, each dancer embodies the deity or character designated by the mask he wears. This "appropriation" is not without danger, so prayers are said and medicines are prepared for the masked dancers. (Source: Africa, ed. Prestel)